Thai authorities conducted raids last week targeting several Jewish institutions in Bangkok, including the Chabad Bangkok Foundation, a Chabad kindergarten, and the Jewish Association of Thailand. The operations were part of a wider investigation into alleged networks of businesses and assets connected to Israeli nationals, amid Thailand’s strict regulations on foreign business ownership.

The raids took place on Thursday and involved more than 10 government agencies, including the police, Revenue Department, Immigration Bureau, Anti-Money Laundering Office, and the Lands Department. Investigators are reportedly examining the ownership and control of the businesses in question, their funding sources, real estate transactions, company operations, and cases of Thai citizenship granted to some individuals involved.

Authorities said that the primary focus of the investigation concerned institutions linked to Chabad. During the operation, officials identified approximately 40 foreign workers connected to the targeted organizations. Among them were three Myanmar nationals suspected of working without valid permits and residing illegally in Thailand. These individuals are expected to face deportation proceedings.

At the Chabad kindergarten offices in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district, investigators confiscated documents related to nonprofit and company registrations, donations, membership records, land acquisitions, construction projects, tax payments, and the operation of restaurants, hotels, and Chabad houses. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) noted that more than 61 companies were registered at the same address, with overlapping directors or shareholders.

In response, Eli Wilhelm, a representative of Chabad Bangkok, denied any connection between the foundation and the companies under scrutiny. He explained that the documents were found at an accountant’s office and stressed that it is common for accountants to handle multiple clients. “That does not mean they are our companies or companies connected to us,” he said. Wilhelm also emphasized that the investigation has not impeded Chabad’s activities.

A separate raid was conducted at the Jewish Association of Thailand’s premises in the Khlong Toei district, where authorities discovered two Laotian nationals working without authorization. Legal action has been initiated against their employer. The Jewish Association of Thailand is an established community organization that predates Chabad’s presence in the country.

The investigation into foreign-linked business operations and immigration violations in Bangkok’s Jewish institutions remains ongoing as authorities continue to assess legal and regulatory compliance.