Samui/Surat Thani –
The Ministry of the Interior has ordered the cancellation of a tourist visa belonging to an Israeli national accused of threatening to kill the owner of Samui Exotic Park in Surat Thani and attempting to intimidate staff by threatening to burn down the zoo.
The case began when police on Koh Samui tracked down the tourist following repeated harassment of the zoo’s owner. The suspect was charged and brought before court, which imposed a fine of 5,000 baht and handed down a two‑year prison sentence, suspended for two years. The relatively light punishment sparked widespread public criticism.
Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwanchawee announced that, in response to the severity of the threats and public concern, the ministry has revoked the tourist’s visa and will deport him back to Israel. Authorities are also monitoring other individuals connected to the case for possible prosecution.
The zoo owner revealed that despite the legal proceedings, Israeli tourists have continued to drive past the property and send threatening messages targeting his family. He has filed complaints with the Crime Suppression Division, urging stronger protection and enforcement.
