Authorities Intensify Probe into Chabad Patong After Seven-Day Deadline

Phuket –

Officials conducted a follow-up inspection at Chabad Patong, focusing on product labelling, health standards and import compliance, as part of a comprehensive review ordered by Governor Chotenarin Kerdsom.

Our previous stories:

The Governor of Phuket has directed a comprehensive investigation into the operations of Chabad Patong, with a strict deadline of seven days to deliver findings.

The six‑story Chabad House Patong, a prominent Jewish community center in the heart of the resort town, has come under scrutiny after municipal officials discovered unauthorized structural modifications.

Phuket Governor Chotinrin Kerdsom has disclosed preliminary findings from an ongoing investigation into the Chabad House in Patong, revealing that the operation is linked to two related companies with combined assets of approximately 261.58 million baht and a total of six branches across the province.

Now for the update:

On Sunday (September 20th) the governor had directed relevant agencies to complete an in-depth examination within seven days. The review covers land ownership and use, building permits, commercial operations, and any potential overlap in shareholding with the company linked to a Jewish cemetery project. The goal is to ensure full compliance with Thai law.

Leading the on-site team was Muang Phuket District Chief Siwatch Rawangul, accompanied by officers from the Office of the Consumer Protection Board, Phuket Provincial Public Health Office, Customs Department, Provincial Commerce Office, Land Office, administrative officials, police and local government representatives. The joint operation centred on inventorying goods sold at the premises and examining related import documentation.

Early findings indicate several areas still under scrutiny. Some products lacked Thai-language labels. Officials are also assessing compliance with public health standards and Food and Drug Administration regulations. Customs officers have temporarily seized all merchandise on site pending verification of import records, certificates of origin, customs clearance procedures, tax payments and documentation confirming legal possession and sale within Thailand. Every item must have a clear, traceable paper trail. Failure to produce adequate evidence or any irregularities uncovered could result in legal action.

Governor Chotenarin emphasised that all goods offered for sale in Thailand must meet domestic standards and legal requirements, particularly those relating to consumer safety. “Phuket is a world-class tourist destination,” he said. “Every activity and every product within the Kingdom of Thailand must adhere to Thai standards and laws, regardless of any foreign certifications they may carry.”

Administrative officers are monitoring public order and potential impacts on local residents, while police provide security support. Other agencies continue examining matters within their respective mandates. The governor stressed that the investigation will proceed strictly according to the facts and legal authority of each body. Once results are compiled, the province will make the findings public.