Full Breakdown
Thailand Deports French Zoo Owner and Israeli Visitor Over Tourist Misconduct
9/8/2026, 3:25:30 AM
Core Event
Thailand’s government issued deportation orders for two foreign nationals linked to incidents on the tourist island of Koh Samui. On September 7, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed an order to expel Frenchman Kevin Dimino, co-owner of Samui Exotic Park, after he barred Israeli visitors, engaged in threatening behavior and made antisemitic remarks. Earlier, on September 4, a similar order was issued for Israeli national Yaacov Ohayon, who received a suspended 15-day jail sentence and a 5,000 baht fine for causing fear or panic through threats.
Official Statements & Responses
Prime Minister Anutin, also serving as interior minister, emphasized that tourism is vital to Thailand’s economy but stressed that visitors must respect Thai laws, customs and public order. The government framed the deportations as enforcement of newly published regulations governing the expulsion of foreigners who breach public morals or safety. Both orders allow the individuals to appeal within seven days.
Data & Statistics
- Kevin Dimino was fined 5,000 baht by a local court for violating a road-use law.
- Yaacov Ohayon received a suspended 15-day jail sentence and a 5,000 baht fine for “causing fear or panic.”
- The deportation orders were signed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Impact on Tourism Policy
The actions illustrate Thailand’s tightening stance on tourist misconduct amid concerns that disruptive behavior could harm the nation’s tourism-dependent economy. By invoking the new expulsion regulations, authorities signal a willingness to remove visitors who threaten public order, aiming to preserve Thailand’s reputation as a safe destination.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We want tourists, but when they come, they have to respect our laws, Thai people and our customs and tradition,” — Prime Minister Anutin
- “Let the government do its job… it’s nothing to get worked up about.” — Kevin Dimino
