The Chiang Mai Immigration Department has announced the arrest of a Myanmar national who was working at a Myanmar restaurant in Chiang Mai, Thailand. During an inspection on March 25, Thai authorities conducted a raid at the restaurant and apprehended a Myanmar employee who was working as a sales staff. The investigation revealed that the worker was responsible for serving customers, selling food items, and particularly attending to Myanmar customers at the establishment.
According to the restaurant owner’s statement, the Myanmar employee was being paid 200 Thai Baht per day for their services. Thai authorities have stated that they will proceed with legal action against the arrested Myanmar worker in accordance with Thailand’s immigration laws. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand, many of whom have fled their homeland due to the current political situation.
Immigration authorities have emphasized the importance for Myanmar migrant workers to obtain proper work permits and legal documentation while working in Thailand. Those found working without proper documentation face the risk of legal consequences, including potential deportation. Various organizations have advised Myanmar nationals seeking work in Thailand to pursue employment through legal channels, particularly given the sensitive nature of their situation as people fleeing the political crisis in Myanmar. The incident serves as a reminder of the precarious position many Myanmar workers find themselves in while seeking economic opportunities in neighboring Thailand.
