Bangkok: The governor of Chachoengsao has mandated the demolition of a Jewish cemetery and the removal of the bodies within a 7-day period. The Samet Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organization has also issued a notice prohibiting the use of the cemetery building.
According to Thai News Agency, on September 7, 2025, an administrative order was issued by the Governor of Chachoengsao Province to Jewish Cemetery Thailand, demanding the demolition of structures and the removal of buried or stored bodies within a week. An investigation into the cemetery, located in Samet Tai Subdistrict, Bang Khla District, revealed non-compliance with legal criteria and conditions, leading to the denial of the renewal of the cemetery and crematorium license. The company, Gan Chabad Co., Ltd., representing the operators, has entered the legal process, and the case is currently under consideration by the Rayong Administrative Court.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, Bang Khla District officials, along with other authorities, inspected the cemetery and found four graves. Two of these graves, sealed with cement and marked with plaques indicating years of death in 2025 and 2026, were inside a blue tent, while another unsealed grave without a plaque was located nearby. The cemetery's license expired on December 31, 2023, and due to non-compliance with the Cemetery and Crematoria Act B.E. 2528, the burial at this location violates several sections of the Act.
Consequently, Ms. Chatpra-orn Niyom, the Governor of Chachoengsao Province, issued an order to demolish the cemetery structures and relocate the bodies to a properly licensed cemetery within seven days. The Bang Khla District Chief and relevant agencies have been instructed to monitor and report on the situation.
On the same day, Mr. Kittipong Sileuang, Mayor of the Samet Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organization, issued orders prohibiting the use of the cemetery building. A vinyl sign was displayed, warning that violators would face criminal penalties under the Building Control Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
Reporters remain vigilant amidst concerns from local villagers. An urgent meeting has been convened for September 8, 2026, by the Bang Khla District Chief, involving all relevant agencies, village headmen, and community leaders, with further updates anticipated.