DSI Investigates Joseph's Heirs, 19 Firms After Citizenship Revoked

Interior Minister Phonphiphat disclosed that the Interior Ministry and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) are rushing to investigate the heirs of Joseph Hem Canter, leader of Thailand's Jewish community and president of the Chabad network, following the Prime Minister's signing of an order revoking his Thai citizenship. Speaking at 07:45 on October 30, 2026 at Don Mueabg Air Force Base Wing 6, Phonphiphat stated the citizenship revocation order came from the DSI and was forwarded to the Interior Ministry. Investigators confirmed that after obtaining Thai citizenship, Joseph continued to use his American citizenship.

The Interior Ministry is now examining who among Joseph's heirs and associates received Thai citizenship through him. Since Joseph committed an offense, authorities must determine whether his descendants and relatives residing in Thailand who also hold Thai citizenship are similarly liable. If they are, the same legal action will be taken.

Regarding Joseph's assets held while he possessed Thai citizenship, if the acquisition violated Thai law, the Land Department will examine each land parcel's acquisition date. If obtained while he held Thai citizenship and involved wrongdoing, the Land Department will order forced sale of the land.

The Interior Ministry's investigation has so far uncovered 19 companies. The Land Department and the Department of Business Development under the Commerce Ministry are collaborating to expedite the case. If shareholding exceeds legal ratios, the companies will be classified as nominee entities. Investigators are also tracing whether these 19 companies hold stakes in other firms. If wrongdoing is found, the DSI and Land Department will pursue asset seizure, attachment, and forced sale in accordance with the law.