Law
Justice Minister Issues Final Summons for Phuket MP in Nominee Case
Justice Minister Lt. Gen. Ruttapol Naowarat has issued a final summons for Phuket MP Somchat Techathavorncharoen regarding an investigation into alleged foreign nominee property holdings.
On September 21, 2026, Thailand’s Minister of Justice, Lt. Gen. Ruttapol Naowarat, announced that the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has issued a final (third) summons for Somchat Techathavorncharoen, a People's Party MP for Phuket. The investigation concerns allegations that the MP participated in holding real estate and condominium units in collaboration with foreign nationals, acting as a nominee.
The Minister stated that the deadline for the MP to report to authorities is September 28, 2026. According to the Ministry, this date was set in accordance with the MP's own request. Lt. Gen. Ruttapol emphasized that if the MP fails to appear as scheduled, the DSI is prepared to follow legal procedures, which include filing a formal complaint with the Thung Song Hong Police Station to initiate the process for an arrest warrant under Section 24 of the Special Case Investigation Act.
For residents and expatriates, this case highlights ongoing government scrutiny regarding the use of Thai nominees to circumvent property ownership laws. While the investigation is currently focused on a specific political figure, it underscores the strict enforcement of regulations governing foreign land and property ownership in Thailand. It remains to be confirmed whether the MP will comply with the final summons or if the DSI will proceed with seeking an arrest warrant after the September 28 deadline.
