Chachoengsao: Deputy Interior Minister Polpeer Suwannachavi conducted a significant inspection at a Jewish cemetery in Chachoengsao, uncovering four bodies found without any death certificates or known causes of death. The cemetery, lacking a proper operational permit, is now under scrutiny for potential money laundering activities linked to foreign ownership. The bodies are scheduled for relocation tomorrow as part of the ongoing investigation.

According to Thai News Agency, the inspection highlighted that the cemetery, operated by Gan Chabad Co., Ltd., did not have the necessary permits to function as a burial site or for conducting religious ceremonies. The Deputy Minister has tasked the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to delve deeper into the financial transactions associated with the cemetery. He warned that if illegal activities are confirmed, the cemetery's operations will be terminated, and those responsible will face deportation. Local residents expressed their discontent through protests, holding signs that read, "We don't want ghosts! Get Out!"

During the visit, Mr. Polpeer was briefed by local officials, including the Bang Khla District Chief and the Governor of Chachoengsao Province. He questioned the legitimacy of the cemetery's establishment, given its proximity to the highway and the apparent absence of a legal permit. The Deputy Minister also interacted with the protesting villagers, who thanked him for addressing their concerns and urged further investigation into how the foreign-owned company acquired the land and commenced operations without public consultation.

Further investigations revealed that the cemetery's current owners, Israeli nationals who obtained Thai citizenship, acquired approximately 15 rai of land in the area. The authorities are now examining the origins of the funds used for these transactions and any connections to other businesses in Chonburi and Phuket. This has prompted a broader investigation into potential money laundering activities involving several companies where these individuals are listed as directors.

Local residents, led by former village headman Mr. Sant Srijarern, have expressed deep concerns about the impact of the cemetery on their agricultural lands and have demanded accountability from the officials who approved the project. Ms. Nuanphan Chaengcharoen, a resident, shared her apprehensions about environmental contamination and the lack of transparency surrounding the cemetery's operations.

The investigation is set to expand, with a meeting scheduled at Government House to discuss the findings and inform the Prime Minister. The Ministry of Justice, DSI, AMLO, and other relevant agencies will convene to assess the extent of the network's activities and determine the next steps in this complex case.