Chanthaburi: Eight Chinese nationals were arrested by the Royal Thai Navy for illegally crossing the border in Chanthaburi Province. They are suspected of fleeing from Myanmar amid a crackdown on cyber scams and planning to relocate their base to Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, Rear Admiral Parat Rattanachaiphan, the spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, disclosed that the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Force (CPTD), through the Chanthaburi Naval Task Force, found the eight Chinese men in a fruit orchard in Ban Nong Krathing, Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi Province. The discovery took place on December 2, 2025.
Initial investigations revealed that all individuals provided consistent statements, indicating they fled from Myanmar through natural channels due to an intensive crackdown on cyber scams and transnational crime networks in Myanmar. The group was reportedly abandoned in the area, awaiting transport to Cambodia, a route commonly used for illegal labor smuggling.
The PDRC has coordinated with the Ban Plaeng Police Station and the Chanthaburi Immigration Police to initiate legal proceedings. It was confirmed that the arrest and detention adhered to international humanitarian principles and complied strictly with the Prevention of Torture Act, specifically Sections 5, 6, 7, 22, and 23.
To ensure public confidence, the Navy has outlined standard procedures for arresting illegal immigrants, which include: detecting, intercepting, and recording evidence using necessary force; controlling individuals safely while considering human dignity; conducting preliminary inquiries without intimidation; and preparing an arrest record for submission to the local police station in a transparent manner.