BANGKOK — Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed provincial governors and district chiefs to expedite the deportation of foreigners who commit offences or take advantage of Thai residents.

Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, issued the instruction during a nationwide video conference with government officials on September 17.

He said provincial and district authorities must take firm action against expatriates displaying aggressive or inappropriate behaviour, or exploiting local people.

“The new deportation regulation of the Prime Minister’s Office has already taken effect. Please take action fairly, carefully and decisively,” he said, as reported by Bangkok Post.

The directive targets foreigners who illegally occupy land, operate businesses or work without the necessary permits, as well as those accused of showing disrespect towards Thai traditions and culture.

It applies to both tourists and expatriates, with particular attention directed towards areas including Phuket and Surat Thani province, covering Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, according to a post on September 17 by the Interior Ministry.

Anutin also instructed provincial governors to examine the establishment of religious sites in Thailand, saying authorities should safeguard the interests of Thai people.

He did not provide further details, but the issue follows recent controversies involving a Jewish cemetery in Chachoengsao and the cancellation of a Jewish New Year event in Phuket after Thai protesters gathered near its venue.

The prime minister urged governors not to wait for foreign offenders to serve punishments in Thailand, arguing that their continued presence would consume national resources.

He called for deportation to be prioritised and said authorities could pay airfares upfront to facilitate swift departures, then seek reimbursement.

The directive follows the cases of an Israeli national and a Frenchman who recently became the first foreigners ordered to leave Thailand under the new regulations.

The Israeli was convicted of making threats after his family was denied entry to a zoo owned by the Frenchman and his wife.

The Frenchman, who has publicly supported the Palestinian cause, was cited for actions described as contributing to religious division and conflict.

Police confirmed that both men had been detained while appealing against their deportation orders and remained in Thailand as of September 17.