Report Myanmar Nationals Arrested for Illegally Entering Thailand

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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

In a significant operation yesterday, Thai authorities apprehended 100 Myanmar nationals who had illegally entered the country, highlighting ongoing border challenges between the two nations.

 

The group, consisting of 62 men and 38 women, navigated through forests and waterways for four strenuous days before being captured in Kanchanaburi province, near the Thai-Myanmar border. Their perilous journey ended when park rangers discovered them near a reservoir close to the Pom Pee viewpoint in Khao Laem National Park, roughly 5 to 6 kilometres from the Chong Uar Checkpoint.

 

The successful apprehension was part of a coordinated effort led by Kanchanaburi officials, including Governor Athisan Intra, Major General Atsadawut Panyarachun of the 9th Infantry Division, and Police Major General Pornchai Chalordet, the provincial police commander. Their team had been tasked with intensifying surveillance to prevent illegal cross-border activities, focusing particularly on the smuggling of individuals from Myanmar.

 

The breakthrough in the operation came when rangers in Khao Laem National Park spotted a trail of footprints leading into the dense forest. Following these tracks, the authorities discovered the group, who had been attempting to remain hidden as they awaited further transport deeper into Thailand.

 

Upon capture, the individuals were taken to the Chong Uar Checkpoint for processing. Preliminary checks of their belongings indicated no illegal items. Through an interpreter, the detainees recounted their journey, detailing how they began in various cities in Myanmar, gathering in the Phaya Tong Su district. A guide from Myanmar had assisted them in traversing natural paths across the border, utilising a mix of vehicles and boats to reach their intended destination.

 

Their plan was thwarted, and they were subsequently transported to Sangkhla Buri Police Station for further questioning as officials worked to dismantle the smuggling network responsible for facilitating their entry. Charges for illegal entry have been filed against them, and they will be deported after legal proceedings are concluded.

 

This operation represents a collaborative effort among several high-ranking officials, including Police Colonel Banjong Amarit and Sangkhla Buri district chief Suriyasak Mueanouam, illustrating the gravity of cross-border smuggling issues in the region.

 

The detention of these individuals underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Thailand in managing its border security. The authorities remain committed to stringent monitoring and have reiterated their resolve to tackle illegal activities to maintain the integrity of the nation's borders.

 

For Thailand, such operations are crucial in stemming the flow of illegal entries and ensuring regional stability. It also highlights the broader geopolitical and humanitarian situations driving such perilous journeys, necessitating cooperation and dialogue between neighbouring countries.

 

As the legal process unfolds, this incident reminds us of the complexities and human stories behind migration, pushing for continued vigilance and understanding across borders.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-26