Thailand issues arrest warrants for 20 Israelis in sweeping Koh Samui business crackdown

Thai police have launched a significant crackdown on foreign business networks operating illegally, issuing arrest warrants for 20 Israeli nationals on the popular tourist island of Koh Samui. The operation targets companies suspected of using Thai citizens as nominee shareholders to conceal foreign ownership and operate businesses restricted to locals.

The Koh Samui Provincial Court issued warrants for the Israelis as part of a broader investigation that has examined over 12,900 companies registered on the island. Authorities flagged 875 companies for potential nominee shareholder activity. The investigation has so far opened 60 cases against 88 suspects, including 26 Thai citizens and 62 foreigners, with arrest warrants issued for all foreign suspects.

Among those arrested is prominent Israeli real estate developer Gal Bieber, 45. Police allege he provided false information to officials, unlawfully managed businesses restricted to Thai citizens, and used Thai individuals and corporations to hide foreign ownership and control. Authorities suspect that Bieber and his wife established a complex corporate structure, placing Thai citizens as nominal shareholders to operate an international school without a license and to buy, sell, and rent luxury villas, primarily to Israeli clients.

The operation has seized incorporation documents, accounting books, computers, and mobile phones, which police will use to expand their investigation. The total value of the assets under scrutiny, including 42 plots of land and buildings, is estimated at 1.5 billion baht (approximately $40 million USD).