A RAID was mounted on a zoo in Krabi which the authorities suspect is being operated by foreigners using Thais as nominee shareholders today (May 29), TV Channel 7 said this evening.
This southern Andaman coastal province’s Governor Angkul Silatewakul and Provincial Police Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Sukasem Nakornwilai launched a joint operation with a team from Krabi Provincial Police, Immigration Bureau, Tourist Police, Employment Office, Commerce Office, Livestock Office, and other relevant agencies sent to this zoo to investigate, gather evidence, and verify legal compliance in all aspects.
Investigation revealed that at least two Israeli nationals were involved in the zoo’s operation, assuming roles in planning, establishing, and managing the business. Furthermore, four Thai nationals were found to be holding shares in the zoo, maintaining 51%-49% Thai-foreign stakes in accordance with Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999).
However, it was ascertained that most of the Thais were merely employees or disguised shareholders, not the actual business operators.
An examination of mobile phone records and conversations of those involved yielded details about business planning and management, shareholding structure, and operating this zoo as a disguised nominee business. Officials are currently investigating the financial trail, sources of investment, and the true beneficiaries.
Meanwhile the provincial livestock officials inspected the living condition, care, and welfare of the animals within the zoo, as well as verifying the legality of animal ownership and related documents. Any violations will be strictly prosecuted.
Krabi authorities affirmed that this operation was aimed at ensuring fairness in business practice, protect national interest, prevent the use of Thai nationals as proxies for foreign nationals engaging in illegal business, and ensure that animal-related and tourism-related businesses operate in accordance with the law and appropriate standard.
The probe is being expanded to check other individuals and entities involved in operating this zoo with the public urged to report any information regarding similar illegal activities to government agencies or the police at any time.
CAPTION:
Police and officials raiding the suspected nominee zoo in Krabi. Photo – TV Channel 7
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