Krabi –
On Friday (May 29th) authorities in Krabi have launched a high-profile investigation into a zoo suspected of operating as a nominee business for Israeli foreign investors, raising concerns over violations of Thailand’s foreign business laws and animal welfare standards. This is part of a major ongoing national crackdown into foreigners using illegal nominees to run businesses.
Governor Angkul Silatevakul, accompanied by Pol. Maj. Gen. Sukasem Nakornwilai, Commander of Krabi Provincial Police, led a joint task force including immigration officers, administrative officials, the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), and the provincial livestock office. The team inspected the zoo in Sai Thai subdistrict, Muang Krabi district, after intelligence suggested the enterprise was structured to conceal foreign ownership.
Investigators found that Israeli nationals were directly involved in planning, establishing, and managing the zoo. Despite holding only 49% of shares, they appeared to exercise full control over operations, including managing bank accounts that received service payments. Meanwhile, Thai shareholders, rotating among four individuals to maintain the required 51% majority, were allegedly serving as nominal owners, with some functioning merely as employees.
Evidence gathered from mobile phones, electronic devices, and online communications revealed detailed plans for shareholder arrangements, business management, and disguised operations. Authorities are now tracing financial flows, investment sources, and identifying the true beneficiaries of the venture.
On-site observations reinforced suspicions that foreign nationals were the actual operators and profit recipients, while Thai shareholders acted as proxies. Officials stressed that such arrangements undermine the integrity of Thailand’s business regulations designed to protect national interests.
Beyond ownership concerns, the provincial livestock office inspected animal welfare conditions, documentation of animal possession, and compliance with legal standards. Authorities pledged strict enforcement if violations are uncovered, ensuring that tourism-related businesses involving animals meet proper legal and ethical requirements.
Governor Angkul stated that the operation wants to safeguard fairness in business practices, prevent exploitation of Thai nationals as nominees, and uphold the country’s economic sovereignty. He added that investigations will expand to cover individuals and entities linked to the zoo, with legal action taken where appropriate.
