The inspection was carried out on Sunday (July 26) after Phuket Governor Chotinrin Kerdsum assigned Vice Governor Pol Lt Col Khetarat Chansilp to lead the operation.
Joining the inspection were Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum, ISOC Phuket Deputy Director Rear Admiral Prapan Srisuwipa, officials from the provincial administration, police, Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), local authorities and other government agencies.
Mueang Phuket District Chief and Acting Provincial Palad Siwat Rawangkul and Phuket Provincial Employment Office Chief Pichit Singthongkam also took part.
Officials reported that the building is licensed to operate as a restaurant and club and includes reception areas, dining rooms, facilities licensed for food sales and a Type 2 liquor licence. The premises also contain areas used for Jewish religious ceremonies, banquet halls, accommodation for religious leaders and a rooftop activity area.
During the inspection, officials found a donation box inside the building.
According to officials, the caretaker said the donations are used to support public benefit activities.
Provincial authorities have assigned relevant agencies to determine whether the collection of donations requires permission under Thailand’s Fundraising Control Act of 1944.
Officials said the investigation will examine whether the fundraising falls within activities regulated under the law, including public fundraising or donations solicited through certain media or online channels. They said any further action would be taken in accordance with the findings and applicable laws.
The inspection also confirmed that the premises are being used for Jewish religious ceremonies.
Officials stressed that Thailand’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and the right to conduct religious ceremonies, provided those activities comply with Thai law and do not threaten national security, public safety, public order or good morals.
Authorities said they will continue monitoring activities at the premises to ensure compliance with the law.
Officials also confirmed that separate investigations have been launched into the ownership of the land and the shareholder structure of the legal entity associated with the property.
If investigators find evidence of illegal land ownership, nominee shareholding arrangements or other legal violations, authorities said they will pursue action under the relevant laws.
Phuket officials described the operation as part of the province’s wider campaign to ensure businesses comply with Thai law while protecting the legal rights and freedoms of all communities through what they described as fair and transparent law enforcement.