Thai police have travelled to Tachileik in Myanmar to coordinate an investigation into suspected call centre scam operations and the arrest of 24 Thai nationals, raising concerns over cross-border criminal activity. The delegation, led by Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelabutr, aims to gather evidence and determine whether those detained are linked to online fraud networks or are victims of human trafficking. The case highlights ongoing efforts to tackle transnational cybercrime affecting the region. Get today's headlines by email The move follows the earlier arrest of 24 Thais, 11 men and 13 women, at the Kyal Dakon Hotel in Tachileik on 7 February 2026 by Myanmar authorities. They are currently being held at Tachileik police station while investigations continue into possible links with human trafficking, call centre scams, and online gambling operations. Thai police were instructed by National Police Chief Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet to engage directly with Myanmar counterparts and relevant agencies. Officials from multiple Thai units joined the visit, including anti-human trafficking divisions, cybercrime investigators, forensic teams, and immigration officers from Chiang Rai. The delegation also sought access to the detained individuals in order to conduct interviews and assess their circumstances before any potential return to Thailand. However, all 24 individuals remain subject to legal proceedings in Myanmar. Pol Gen Thatchai stated that initial findings do not indicate the group was coerced or deceived into crossing the border for work. Authorities are now focused on gathering evidence to determine whether they were knowingly involved in illegal activities such as scam operations or online gambling networks. The investigation also aims to identify whether any organised call centre gangs have relocated to the Tachileik area. The detained individuals face two charges under Myanmar law: illegal use of electronic media, carrying penalties of five to seven years’ imprisonment, and illegal entry, which carries sentences ranging from six months to five years. Due to the severity of these charges, Thai authorities must wait for Myanmar’s legal process to conclude before taking further action. Pictures courtesy of MGR Pol Gen Thatchai added that intelligence suggests scam networks may be shifting operations into the area, prompting closer cooperation between Thai and Myanmar police. He noted that evidence has previously shown foreign nationals, particularly from Asia, being lured across borders into such operations. Manager Online reported that Thai authorities will continue coordinating with Myanmar officials to collect evidence, verify the role of the detained individuals, and track the presence of organised scam networks. Further updates are expected once Myanmar’s legal proceedings progress and more information becomes available. AQNH99ICPYOxkY_6JHYW34tNVt2mw_X0C6wBMFgK9zMLXUg8R-DFjn3w3wfPFWVqUHIFKmFmArdQzsIgTX1I68osMiS7Wd7_lTpwoWR9kA.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosodhttps://MGRonline 26 Mar 2026
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