Thailand receives 41 online gambling suspects from Laos

Thai authorities took custody of 41 Thai nationals at the Mukdahan-Savannakhet border crossing on 29 July after criminal proceedings against them in Laos had concluded.

The group was arrested in Laos over allegations that they worked as administrators for an online gambling network in Kaysone Phomvihane, Savannakhet province. Lao authorities seized 78 computers and 42 mobile phones in the case.

At 10.30am, Mukdahan Governor Worayan Boonnarat assigned his deputy, Chalit Thipkham, to oversee the handover. Mukdahan provincial police chief Pol Maj Gen Pairoj Thaiputra and immigration chief Pol Col Thanis Saengthanang travelled to Savannakhet to receive the group from Lao officials.

They were transferred through the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge permanent border checkpoint linking Mukdahan and Savannakhet.

Screening under Thai law

Mukdahan authorities assembled security, administrative, police, military, immigration and customs agencies for the operation, alongside public health, social development and human security, labour, employment, provincial prosecutor's office and other officials.

Mr Chalit said all 41 people would undergo checks and screening under Thai law following their return.

Officials will search and X-ray their luggage for illegal items, while public health teams carry out health checks. A multi-agency team, including social development officials, police and immigration staff, will assess the facts and circumstances surrounding each person.

If anyone is found to be a victim of human trafficking or to have been deceived into committing offences, they will be given state protection and assistance. They would be placed in the care of the Mukdahan Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office at the province's Child and Family Home.

Possible further action

Those for whom investigators find conduct or evidence indicating offences under Thai law may face further legal proceedings. Mr Chalit said this could include action under the Immigration Act, referral to investigators over online gambling offences, or other offences supported by available evidence.

He added that authorities would also check for outstanding arrest warrants, unresolved cases and evidence connected to offences within Thai jurisdiction.

Mr Chalit said the operation was being conducted under the rule of law and strict enforcement procedures, with the aim of maintaining public order and national security.

All 41 people have now entered Thailand's formal screening process before being referred to the relevant authorities for any subsequent legal steps.

Pictures courtesy of SiamRath

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30 July 2026