CNI News

7 March 2024

A large number of Myanmar people entered illegally Thailand through the border gates of the two countries and were arrested, those who are helping in the affairs of migrant workers told CNI News. 

Although most Myanmar people sneaked into Thailand through Phayathonsu and Myawady-Maesot gateways in the past, Kawthaung-Ranong border gates are being used just now and security operation has been tightened more in the border areas, Ko Thargyi, a person who is helping in the affairs of migrant workers, told CNI News.

" One or two days ago, nearly 100 people were arrested and they were carried on six wheel trucks from Ranong-Kawthaung. Security is more strict at the Maesot-Myawady border area. Check points have become more. There are arrests almost everyday. Not only Myawady-Maesot, other gates such as Phayathonsu, Ranong-Kawthaung, Mae Sai-Tachileik, are also used by a lot of Myanmar people to sneak into Thailand." he said.

While authorities have detained those who entered illegally

Although entering another country illegally was not encouraged, those who sneaked in for many reasons needed to beware of unscrupulous brokers and it was necessary to be careful so as to evade arrests, suggested those who are helping in the affairs of foreign migrant workers. Moreover, Thai authorities are checking factories and workshops and if illegal workers there are found there, they are being arrested reportedly.

Because too many Myanmar people are entering the Thai side, rental fees for hostels and houses are increasing and some are finding it difficult for accommodation, U Min Oo, in charge of labor affairs from the FED, told CNI News.

" Especially, accommodation difficulty takes place in the region such as Maesot. An accommodation whose rental fee was 1,000 baht in the past must be paid 3,000 baht now. The places to be rented have been scarce really. Because of having to report the guest list, it's not easy to rent accommodations. Headmen, local police and authorities are scrutinizing guests." he said.

Moreover, Thai immigration officers are tightening the entry of Myanmar citizens with a border pass whose validity is seven days and instant entry is not allowed. They are allowed to enter only when legal residents recommend reportedly.