Thai authorities raid unlicensed Koh Phangan school, find 89 children
Surat Thani, Thailand Joint Thai security forces conducted a raid on an unlicensed private school operating as a childcare center on Koh Phangan, uncovering significant violations including far more children than…
Thai authorities raided an unlicensed private school on Koh Phangan on May 1 and found 89 foreign children, mostly Israeli, at a facility licensed only as a childcare center, officials said. The operation, involving security and immigration officers, adds to scrutiny of unauthorized education businesses on southern islands including areas linked to Phuket.
The inspection took place at a site in Village 3, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, after complaints from concerned citizens about irregularities. Officials from ISOC Region 4, military units under the Command for Controlling New Security Threats, local administration, Phangan Police and Immigration Police joined the operation.
Permit allowed 18 children, but site operated as a school
The establishment held permission from the Surat Thani Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office to run a childcare center for no more than 18 children aged 2 to 5.
Officers instead found a larger operation with a playground, classrooms and educational instruction. The children at the site were aged 2 to 12, according to officials.
Foreign workers found, nine people reportedly charged
Authorities also found about 40 Myanmar nationals and 12 other foreign workers at the compound. Many tried to flee during the inspection, and several were identified as working illegally.
Officials identified a 61-year-old woman from Phetchabun, Prathumthip, as manager and company director, and an Iranian couple, Aidin and Neger, both 45, as co-owners. They face allegations including employing undocumented foreign workers, violating the Child Protection Act in operating a childcare facility, and running a private school without authorization.
A total of nine people were later reportedly charged in connection with the case.
Investigators are also examining possible irregularities involving state officials, birth registration documents and company shareholding structures that may include nominee arrangements.
Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/02/thai-authorities-raid-unlicensed-private-school-on-koh-phangan-discover-89-mostly-israeli-children-and-illegal-foreign-workers/
