Thailand to Deport Israeli Citizen Following Koh Samui Zoo Altercation
Thai authorities have revoked the visa of an Israeli national and ordered his deportation. The decision follows a conviction for threats against the French co-owner of an exotic zoo on Koh Samui.
Thai authorities have ordered the deportation of an Israeli citizen involved in a high-profile dispute with the French manager of an exotic zoo on the island of Koh Samui. The Thai Ministry of Interior ruled that his conduct constituted a threat to public order and safety.
Court Verdict and Sentencing
The deportation order follows a ruling by the Koh Samui District Court, which found the Israeli national guilty under Section 392 of the Thai Penal Code for making threats and causing fear.
The court initially sentenced him to one month in prison and a fine of 10,000 baht. Following a guilty plea, the sentence was reduced to 15 days in prison, a fine of 5,000 baht, and a two-year suspended sentence.
On September 4, Thailand's Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul signed the official deportation order under the Deportation Act of 1956. The Israeli citizen retains the right to appeal the decision within seven days of receiving official notification.
Background of the Dispute
The incident originated at the Samui Exotic Park, managed by French national Kevin Dimino and his Thai wife. Dimino had displayed a Palestinian flag and signs stating that Israelis were banned from entering the park.
This sparked a confrontation with an Israeli resident of the island. Video footage circulated online showing Dimino physically assaulting the Israeli man, including headbutting him.
Dimino claimed that he and his family subsequently received death threats, and alleged that his mother's house in France was targeted by arson. Thai police also launched an investigation into reports that an Israeli individual offered a 500,000 baht bounty for information leading to physical harm against the French manager.
