Law
DSI Summons Phuket MP Over Alleged Foreign Nominee Links
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has summoned Phuket MP Somchat Techathavorncharoen to clarify his involvement with companies suspected of acting as foreign nominees for real estate holdings.
On August 20, 2026, Khaosod Online reported that Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is preparing to summon Somchat Techathavorncharoen, a People's Party MP for Phuket, to provide testimony regarding his business activities. The DSI’s Security Case Division is investigating financial links between the MP and over 30 corporate entities.
According to the report, investigators suspect these companies may be acting as 'nominees' to facilitate foreign ownership of Thai real estate. The DSI noted that while the MP holds a 99.99% stake in a specific firm, the company appears to conduct no actual business operations. Instead, it reportedly holds real estate assets valued at over 100 million baht in conjunction with foreign nationals. Authorities are currently examining the source of these funds and the nature of unusual lease agreements associated with these entities.
For residents and expatriates, this case highlights ongoing government scrutiny regarding land and property ownership structures involving foreign interests. While the DSI has indicated that the current findings do not yet meet the specific criteria for violations under the Foreign Business Act, the investigation is ongoing. Mr. Somchat is scheduled to appear before the DSI on August 31 to clarify these allegations. It remains to be confirmed whether these business practices constitute a breach of Thai law, as the investigation is still in its preliminary stages.