Anutin orders Frenchman deported after Koh Samui traffic conviction

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered the deportation of a French national, Kevin Dimino, following a Koh Samui traffic conviction. The decision stems from Dimino's alleged conduct that posed a threat to public order, morality, and wellbeing, according to the Interior Ministry. Dimino was found guilty by the Koh Samui Provincial Court for offenses under the Land Traffic Act, including threatening, harassing, and physically aggressive behavior that caused disturbances to others.

These actions allegedly created serious racial and religious divisions, even among tourists. Dimino was initially fined 10,000 baht by the court but had the penalty reduced to 5,000 baht upon pleading guilty. If the fine remains unpaid, further legal action under Sections 29 and 30 of the Criminal Code is pending. The Interior Ministry deemed deportation necessary under Section 5 of the Deportation Act 1956, citing Dimino's behavior as contrary to public order, good morals, and public wellbeing.

Dimino can appeal the decision to the prime minister within seven days of becoming aware of the order, seeking either revocation of the order or a waiver of his deportation.