Authorities have raided an illegal private school on Koh Phangan, uncovering 89 foreign children, many of them Israeli nationals, and arresting multiple suspects. The operation, carried out on 1 May 2026, found the facility operating beyond its permitted licence as a childcare centre, raising concerns over regulatory breaches and illegal employment.
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The raid was ordered by Lt Gen Norathip Phoynok, commander of the Fourth Army Region, and involved military personnel, local administration officials, Koh Phangan police, and immigration officers. The school, located in Moo 3, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, had permission to operate as a childcare facility for up to 18 children aged 2 to 5, but was found hosting 89 children aged 2 to 12.
Officials also discovered 40 Myanmar nationals and 12 other foreign workers on site, with some attempting to flee during the inspection. Three individuals running the school were arrested: Pratumthip, 61, a Thai National from Phetchabun, identified as the company manager and director, and an Iranian couple, Mr Aidin, 45, and Ms Neger, 45, who claimed to be co-owners. All were charged with employing illegal foreign workers and operating an unlicensed educational institution.
In addition, six foreign nationals working as teachers, from countries including France and South Africa, were charged with working without permits and failing to notify authorities of their employment status. Pratumthip presented documentation from the Surat Thani Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office showing approval to run a childcare centre, but could not produce a licence for operating a private school, stating it was still under application.
Pictures courtesy of ȚhaiRath
The raid followed complaints on social media alleging that foreign nationals were operating businesses in violation of Thai law, potentially affecting long-term national security. Authorities said the operation was part of broader efforts to address emerging security threats and enforce legal compliance in the region.
ThaiRath reported that investigations are ongoing and authorities are expected to pursue further legal action against those involved. Officials have indicated that inspections of similar establishments may increase in response to public complaints and concerns over regulatory breaches.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 3 May 2026
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