The Immigration Bureau investigators launched a crackdown on 25 March 2026, arresting six Chinese nationals linked to transnational crime networks across multiple locations in Thailand. The operation targeted offences including human trafficking, illegal sale of nitrous oxide, online gambling, money laundering, and call centre scams. Authorities said the arrests marked the first day of an intensified enforcement campaign. Get today's headlines by email At approximately 13:30, officers arrested Mr Zhichao, a 22-year-old Chinese national, at Preme Lakeview apartment in Bang Bo, Samut Prakan. He was wanted under a Criminal Court warrant dated 6 March 2026 for allegedly organising illegal online gambling and participating in money laundering. He was transferred to investigators from the Technology Crime Suppression Division for further legal proceedings. Later, at around 15:00, officers acted on a request from China’s Ministry of Public Security in Chongqing to track a network accused of illegally distributing nitrous oxide. Three suspects, Mr Hu Shi, 27, Mr Qin Yang, 26, and Mr Chen Cai, 26, were located at a housing estate in Bueng Kham Phroi, Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani. All three had their permission to stay in Thailand revoked following arrest warrants issued on 18 December 2025 and were detained pending deportation to China. Authorities seized one long BB gun, one BB handgun, 20 boxes of nitrous oxide canisters (each containing two 2kg tanks), and four large bags of balloons. At 18:00, investigators raided a human trafficking network accused of smuggling Chinese women abroad for prostitution and other illegal activities. Two additional suspects, Mrs Xie Qiuxia, 35, and Mr Zhang Xian, 40, were arrested in Fa Ham, Mueang Chiang Mai. Both were wanted by Chinese authorities for offences including organising human trafficking and illegal immigration. Investigators alleged the pair arranged for more than 110 Chinese women to be smuggled to the United States via over 10 countries, including Thailand and Mexico, charging 100,000 yuan per person, totalling more than 10 million yuan. Authorities further alleged that Mr Zhang Xian organised the trafficking of women into prostitution and other illegal activities in the United States, Angola, and Namibia using coercion, deception, and threats. Both suspects had their visas revoked and were transferred to Chiang Mai Immigration for detention prior to further processing and transfer to Bangkok. Thaitabloid reported that officials stated the coordinated operation reflects growing cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in tackling transnational crime networks. Further investigations are ongoing, with additional suspects believed to be under surveillance. Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 27 Mar 2026
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