Bangkok: "Phonpeer" has issued decisive orders, setting a deadline for reports on illegal cemeteries in Chachoengsao this Sunday, and has instructed a nationwide inspection of foreign-owned cemeteries. Deputy Interior Minister Polpeerapong has reiterated the deadline for reporting progress on the investigation into illegal cemeteries in Chachoengsao by this Sunday. All provinces have been ordered to strictly survey cemetery management operations and expedite disciplinary action against local leaders involved in drug trafficking and illegal pubs.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Minister of Interior Mr. Polpeera Suwannachavi chaired a meeting to follow up on the inspection of the Jewish Cemetery Thailand and address security issues in Chachoengsao Province. The meeting took place at the Bang Khla District Office, Chachoengsao Province.
General Peer emphasized the importance of summarizing the facts concerning the use of land for an illegal cemetery. He directed provincial authorities to verify documentation and geographical conditions from 2021 and identify what changes led to the permit denial by January 1, 2024. The Bang Khla District Chief, formerly responsible for the area, is expected to provide comprehensive information.
Authorities are tasked with coordinating with the Immigration Bureau to determine if the four bodies found are Israeli nationals, when they entered the country, their visa status, and the cause of death. General Peer expressed concern about the potential misidentification of bodies, highlighting the seriousness if they were Thai citizens. He noted the abnormality of the dates when concrete pits were covered and stressed the necessity of upholding the law.
The investigation extends to the Charoen Krung cemetery in Bangkok, legally owned by Thais but rented by foreigners who have buried 49 bodies there. General Peer underscored the need for thorough investigations into identities and causes of death, warning against unauthorized burials without official procedures. The Department of Provincial Administration is tasked with developing a digital database to track licensed and unlicensed cemeteries and crematoriums nationwide.
General Peer outlined contingency plans if the 7-day deadline for removing a body is not met, emphasizing the importance of adhering to demolition laws and religious principles. He insisted on detailed reporting by Sunday's meeting at 4:00 PM, including information on the deceased's relatives' awareness of the situation.
Regarding land ownership, General Peer noted the founders, now Thai citizens, can legally own land but insisted on investigating any legal violations, particularly under the Cemetery and Crematorium Act of 1985. The Ministry of Interior is to gather comprehensive data on these establishments and take decisive legal action if illegal activities are detected.
Finally, General Peer stressed the urgency of following up on disciplinary actions against officials involved in an illegal entertainment venue raid on August 8, 2026. The raid revealed drugs and underage individuals, implicating local leaders. The province is instructed to expedite the investigation and take swift disciplinary and legal action to prevent offenders from retaining positions and salaries. General Peer emphasized the Ministry of Interior's role in maintaining social order, integrity, and justice promptly.