Thai authorities have arrested more than 100 Myanmar nationals who illegally entered the forest areas of Kanchanaburi Province’s Sangkhla Buri district. The arrest, which took place on August 25, involved 62 men and 38 women, all of whom came from various cities across Myanmar. This surge in illegal border crossings reflects the current political and economic situation in Myanmar, where civilians are struggling to survive under increasingly difficult circumstances.
The arrested Myanmar nationals had entered Thailand through the Three Pagodas Pass border area, using both forest paths and waterways. None of them possessed any legal travel documents or identification papers. According to authorities, these individuals were seeking employment opportunities in Thailand. They are currently being held at the Sangkhla Buri Police Station for questioning and investigation. The situation highlights the desperate measures people are taking to escape the deteriorating conditions in their home country.
Thai authorities have stated that these detained individuals will be deported back to Myanmar. However, given the current situation in Myanmar, there are significant concerns for these civilians upon their return. Their attempt to flee into Thailand primarily stems from the military council’s oppression, forced military recruitment, and economic hardships. The prospect of being sent back raises serious concerns about their safety and well-being, particularly given the ongoing crisis in Myanmar where civilians face various forms of persecution and economic challenges under military rule.
