PAI — A Brazilian musician’s girlfriend has appealed to the media, claiming Thai immigration authorities used excessive measures in handling a minor work permit violation in Pai, Mae Hong Son province. The incident has prevented the musician from performing at scheduled concerts in Japan.
Yael, an Israeli tourist, sent an urgent email to local media on February 16, detailing the arrest and subsequent treatment of her boyfriend Matheus, a renowned Brazilian bassist, and other musicians at Jazz House restaurant in Pai. The musicians were arrested on February 13 for performing without work permits.
“They are still being held with no explanation, no information, and no dignity,” Yael wrote in her emotional appeal. “Everyone who knows them knows how good-hearted and respectful they are toward the place and the local people. The treatment they are receiving right now is simply appalling. When will this end? I have no idea what else can I do?”
According to Yael’s account, the group was detained under harsh conditions, forced to sleep on the floor without basic necessities for two nights. After appearing in court on February 15, they were fined 5,000 baht each. However, instead of being released, they were transported to Mae Hong Son immigration detention center.
The case involves four individuals: the Irish venue owner, Brian, and three musicians – Matheus from Brazil and two Israeli nationals, Mr. Yishay and Mr. Shay. Brian, who operated Jazz House without proper business registration, was released on 120,000 baht bail. Matheus and Mr. Yishay were fined 5,000 baht each for working without permits, while Mr. Shay received an 8,000 baht fine for working outside his permit’s scope.
Matheus, who had been touring Thailand as a tourist for three months, was scheduled to perform at 11 venues across Japan starting February 17. The musicians expected to be released after paying their fines but were instead processed for deportation, a decision that has sparked debate about proportional enforcement.
The incident highlights growing tensions in Pai regarding foreign workers, as local residents have increasingly called for stricter enforcement of work permit regulations, particularly concerning foreigners taking jobs from local workers. Immigration authorities have responded with intensified enforcement measures, though some question whether the response in this case was disproportionate to the offense.
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Previous report:
Foreign Musicians Arrested in Pai for Working Without Permits
