Politics
Deputy Interior Minister Orders Removal of Remains from Chachoengsao Cemetery
Deputy Interior Minister Phonphir Suwannachawi has ordered a private company to relocate remains from a Jewish cemetery in Chachoengsao within seven days following local public opposition.
On September 11, 2026, Deputy Minister of Interior Phonphir Suwannachawi conducted an inspection of the 'Jewish Cemetery Thailand' site located in Samet Tai, Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao Province. The visit followed reports of local residents expressing concern and protesting against the facility's presence in their community.
According to Khaosod Online, the Deputy Minister has issued a directive to the private company operating the site, ordering the removal of all remains currently interred at the location within a seven-day timeframe. Authorities are now prioritizing the identification of the deceased to determine if they are Thai nationals or foreign citizens, as there are concerns regarding whether the burials were conducted in compliance with legal procedures. Local officials, including the Governor of Chachoengsao, were present to provide information during the inspection.
For residents and visitors in the area, this situation highlights an ongoing administrative and social dispute regarding land use and burial regulations. While the government has mandated the relocation of the remains, the process is still in its early stages. It remains to be confirmed how the private operator will respond to the seven-day deadline and whether the investigation will reveal further irregularities regarding the legal status of the cemetery and the individuals buried there.
