Immigration
Thai Immigration Authorities Search for French Zoo Owner Following Deportation Order
Thai immigration officials are actively searching for a French national, the owner of a Samui zoo, after the Minister of Interior signed an order for his deportation.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on September 8, 2026, immigration authorities in Surat Thani are currently searching for Mr. Kevin Dimino, a French national who owns a zoo on Koh Samui. This search follows an official deportation order signed by Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.
Reports indicate that on September 7, shortly after the deportation order was issued, Mr. Dimino was observed driving a BMW at high speed to his zoo. He was seen looking around the premises before disappearing. As of the time of the report, his current whereabouts remain unknown.
For residents and travelers on Koh Samui, this situation highlights ongoing tensions involving foreign nationals on the island. Authorities have stated that once Mr. Dimino is apprehended, he will be detained at the Bo Phut Police Station to await deportation. Officials have confirmed that he will be held in a separate facility from another individual involved in a related dispute, Mr. Yakov Ohayon, who is currently detained at the Koh Samui Police Station, to prevent potential conflict.
It remains to be confirmed when or if authorities will locate Mr. Dimino and the specific timeline for his eventual removal from the country. The situation is part of a broader effort by local authorities to manage cross-national disputes occurring on the island.