Surat Thani, Thailand
Joint Thai security forces conducted a raid on an unlicensed private school operating as a childcare center on Koh Phangan, uncovering significant violations including far more children than permitted and numerous illegal foreign workers.
On May 1st, 2026, officials from the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Region 4, military units under the Command for Controlling New Security Threats, local administration, Phangan Police, and Immigration Police inspected a facility in Village 3, Koh Phangan Subdistrict. The operation followed complaints about irregularities at the site from concerned citizens.
The establishment had obtained a permit from the Surat Thani Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office only for a childcare center accommodating no more than 18 children aged 2-5. Instead, authorities found it operating as a full-fledged school with a playground, classrooms, and educational instruction.
89 foreign children, primarily Israeli nationals aged 2-12, were present. In addition, officers discovered around 40 Myanmar nationals and 12 other foreign workers, many of whom attempted to flee during the inspection. Several were identified as working illegally.
Authorities arrested three individuals:
– Mrs. Prathumthip, 61, from Phetchabun province, acting as manager and company director.
– An Iranian couple, Mr. Aidin, and Mrs. Neger, both 45, identified as co-owners.
They face charges including employing undocumented foreign workers, operating a childcare facility in violation of the Child Protection Act, and establishing a private school without authorization. A total of nine people were later reportedly charged in connection with the case.
Investigators are also examining potential irregularities involving state officials and birth registration documents, though no updates on that aspect have been released.
This raid shows ongoing concerns about unlicensed educational and childcare operations on popular tourist islands like Koh Phangan, where foreign nationals sometimes use Thai nominees to circumvent restrictions on foreign business ownership. Similar actions have targeted other unauthorized facilities on the island in recent months.
Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the operation, including company shareholding structures that may involve nominee arrangements. The children’s welfare and repatriation or proper care arrangements are also under review.
