Thai–Lao Forces Launch Joint Mekong Patrols

Thai and Lao military forces have agreed to intensify joint efforts to combat drug trafficking and transnational crime along the Mekong River, following a bilateral meeting held on 26 February 2026. The initiative includes coordinated river patrols aimed at curbing illegal border crossings, cross-border narcotics smuggling and online scam operations. The move signals strengthened security cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

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The meeting took place at the conference room of the Third Lao–Thai Friendship Bridge international checkpoint in Laos. Colonel Suphat Chutinan, Commander of Control Division 1 of the Surasak Montri Task Force (R.3), joined the operation alongside Major General Mongkol Hothong, Commander of the Surasak Montri Task Force, who serves as head of the Thai–Lao Border Coordination Unit for the Nakhon Phanom–Khammouane sector. Colonel Bounlert Bupphavan, Head of Military Affairs at the Khammouane Provincial Military Command of Laos, co-chaired the session.

The meeting brought together security commanders from both Thailand and Laos to advance cooperation on preventing and suppressing drug trafficking networks and other illegal activities. Discussions also addressed measures to counter online fraud syndicates, commonly referred to as scammers, operating across borders. The talks form part of ongoing coordination between Nakhon Phanom province and Khammouane province.

Following the meeting, the co-chairs presided over the launch of a joint water patrol along the Mekong River. The patrol aims to demonstrate close cooperation in intercepting illegal immigration, cross-border drug transport and scam-related activities, as well as other criminal offences along the frontier. Authorities stated that the operation is intended to enhance rapid coordination and effective responses to emerging security threats.

The joint patrol also seeks to strengthen mutual understanding and professional ties between the security agencies of both nations. Officials emphasised the importance of timely information sharing and operational readiness in maintaining border stability. The cooperation reflects broader regional efforts to tackle transnational crime affecting communities along the Mekong.

Kaoded reported that further coordination meetings and continued patrols are expected as both sides pursue sustained enforcement measures. Authorities indicated that collaboration would remain ongoing in response to evolving criminal tactics.

Pictures courtesy of kaoded

Key Takeaways

• Thai and Lao forces met on 26 February 2026 to strengthen action against drugs and transnational crime.

• The agreement includes joint Mekong River patrols targeting illegal crossings and online scam networks.

• Security commanders from Nakhon Phanom and Khammouane pledged continued coordination and rapid response.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Kaoded 28 Feb 2026