Samet tai subdistrict: Residents of Samet Tai Subdistrict, Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao Province, have raised concerns over an unauthorized Jewish cemetery operating in their community. The local district and subdistrict administrative organizations are racing to address the issue amid rising tensions.
According to Thai News Agency, an investigation has uncovered that the cemetery, operating under the name "JEWISH CEMETRY THAILAND," was established without proper authorization. It was noted that Thai representatives had initially applied for permission to establish the cemetery back in 2021. However, the request was met with resistance from approximately 60 residents due to the cemetery's proximity to key community infrastructures like schools, health centers, and agricultural water sources. Furthermore, death certificates have confirmed that burials have taken place in the unauthorized cemetery.
The controversy came to a head in 2024 when a mistaken delivery of a body to a wrong address exposed the cemetery's operations. Local villagers prevented the burial, leading to revelations of one illicit burial and the preparation of several other graves.
The Samet Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organization clarified that their previous approvals were limited to the construction of a fence and guesthouse, with the permit expiring in 2024. A decision not to renew the permit was made by the district committee, but villagers remain vigilant, observing any changes such as the construction of a high wall and land modifications. In response to the ongoing concerns, the district, SAO, and other relevant agencies have planned a comprehensive inspection of the area to initiate legal actions.