Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has issued a stern warning to foreigners who break the country’s laws, telling those who “want to die” to return to their home countries.
According to Sinar Harian, Anutin made the remarks on Thursday (Sept 17) while delivering a policy briefing at Thailand’s Ministry of Interior.
‘Go and die back home’
During his speech, Anutin touched on foreigners setting up places of worship and private cemeteries in Thailand without the necessary approvals.
He said such facilities could not simply be established without taking Thai laws, society and local culture into consideration.
“I recently learnt that there has even been a request to establish a private cemetery. This is going too far,” he said.
Anutin then told foreigners living in Thailand to earn an honest living and avoid taking advantage of locals.
“If you are going to die, go and die back home. You do not need to die here. And do not exploit us,” he said, according to Thai media.
Remarks come after cemetery investigation
His comments came shortly after Thai authorities took action over a Jewish cemetery in Bang Khla district, Chachoengsao province.
Authorities reportedly found four bodies buried at the site, involving three Israeli nationals and one British national.
Two of the deceased were also found to have overstayed their visas while they were alive, according to reports.
The cemetery had previously received approval, but its licence was not subsequently renewed.
Authorities later arranged for the four remains to be relocated to a licensed cemetery in Chonburi province.
‘Not targeting any particular nationality’
Despite the timing of his comments, Anutin stressed that his remarks were not specifically directed at Israelis or any particular nationality.
He said issues involving foreigners included individuals from various regions, including Asia, the Middle East, Central Asia, Europe and Africa.
Anutin also instructed provincial governors to step up enforcement against foreigners who violate Thai laws, including pursuing deportation where the relevant legal requirements are met.
At the same time, he said Thailand remained open to foreign tourists and investors who follow the law, respect local culture and do not take advantage of Thai people.
