French Zoo Owner Fights Deportation Order in Thailand

Thailand's Interior Ministry is standing firm on its decision to deport French national Kevin Dimino, citing alleged threats to public order and social harmony. Dimino, owner of Samui Exotic Park on Koh Samui, has officially acknowledged the government's deportation order and plans to appeal, denying rumors of going into hiding. The controversy stems from Dimino's recent actions at his popular zoo, which authorities claim sparked racial and religious divisions among international tourists. However, Dimino's wife, Jindarat, strongly disputes these accusations, asserting that her husband was merely defending their livelihood from harassment. She stated that Dimino reacted only after receiving severe threats against their family business. Jindarat acknowledged a specific incident on August 29 in Bo Phut where her husband shouted at individuals at a local business, leading to a police harassment complaint. She claims this was a response to threats of illegally shutting down their animal park. She also refuted media reports of Dimino absconding, stating he surrendered to police upon learning of the order. Dimino is navigating Thailand's immigration legal system, which grants a seven-day window to file a formal appeal to the Prime Minister's central office from the moment of official notification. The appeal aims to revoke or suspend the deportation order. Legal experts note that overturning such high-level government decisions is typically challenging. During the appeal period, the individual is usually held in police or immigration custody. Jindarat plans to submit the necessary legal documents soon, hoping their side of the story will halt the removal process. Dimino's future in Thailand remains uncertain. The government's decision is based on several alleged incidents, including threatening behavior, verbal abuse, and physical aggression, as well as a recent court conviction under the Land Traffic Act. These infractions led authorities to label him a threat to public morals. Local tensions reportedly escalated earlier this year when the zoo allegedly banned certain foreign nationals, leading to online arguments and physical confrontations. Videos of these incidents went viral. Thai authorities have recently intensified crackdowns on foreigners disturbing the peace in tourist areas, with Dimino being the second foreigner ordered to leave under these stricter regulations. Information Source: Chiang Rai Times