Thai authorities have arrested 44 Myanmar nationals for illegally entering Thailand in Phop Phra district, Tak province. The arrests were made during an early morning patrol by Thai military forces on May 20. According to Thai military and media reports, the group was discovered attempting to enter Thailand through unofficial border crossings. The arrested individuals were reportedly planning to work in construction sites and factories in Bangkok and Pathum Thani areas of Thailand.
Investigation revealed that each person had paid 20,000 Thai Baht to facilitate their illegal border crossing. The group had crossed the Thaung Yin River from the Myanmar side and traveled through forest routes to enter Thailand. All arrested individuals have been detained at the Phop Phra Police Station, where they face legal charges for illegal entry into Thailand. The authorities are processing their cases according to Thai immigration laws and regulations.
This incident highlights the ongoing situation of Myanmar citizens seeking economic opportunities in neighboring countries through irregular migration channels. Thailand remains a primary destination for Myanmar migrant workers, with daily attempts at illegal border crossings being reported. Despite heightened security measures along the Thai-Myanmar border by Thai authorities, the flow of irregular migration continues, largely driven by the current political and economic situation in Myanmar. The Thai authorities maintain strict border control measures, yet completely preventing unauthorized border crossings remains a significant challenge in the region.
