Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has issued a strong warning to foreigners who violate the country’s laws, telling those who want to “die” to return to their home countries.
He made the remarks while addressing applications to establish private cemeteries and places of worship without the necessary approvals.
“You cannot simply set up your own place of worship. Whatever form it takes, it must respect Thai society and culture.
“I was recently informed of an application to build a private cemetery. This has gone too far,” he said during a speech at the Ministry of Interior on Thursday.
Anutin then issued a stronger warning, saying foreigners living in Thailand should earn a living honestly and not take advantage of local people.
“If you want to die, go home and die in your own country. There is no need to die here. Do not come here to take advantage of us,” he said.
His remarks came days after Thai authorities took action against a Jewish cemetery in Bang Khla district, Chachoengsao province.
An earlier inspection found four bodies buried at the site — three Israeli nationals and one British national. Two of them were also found to have overstayed their visas.
According to media reports, the cemetery’s licence expired in 2023 and was not renewed, raising questions over burials that took place after the licence had lapsed.
The four graves were subsequently relocated on Sept 15 to a new cemetery with the necessary approval.
Anutin stressed, however, that his remarks were not directed specifically at Israelis or any particular nationality.
Instead, he said the issue involved foreigners from various regions, including Asia, West Asia, Central Asia, Europe and Africa.
He also instructed provincial governors to step up enforcement against foreigners who violate the law, including taking deportation action where they meet the relevant criteria.
At the same time, Anutin said Thailand remained open to foreign tourists and investors who obey the law, respect local culture and do not take advantage of the Thai people.
