Mae Tho:Tak Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitanilabutr, Deputy Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police and Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Center, visited Mae Tho district to oversee the investigation into the unlawful detention of Chinese nationals. The visit followed the arrest of four suspects at the Mae Tho checkpoint, where police discovered three Chinese nationals who were subsequently entered into the National Referral Mechanism for further processing.
According to Thai News Agency, the arrests occurred on October 29, 2026, at the crime and drug checkpoint in Provincial Police Region 6. Pol. Gen. Thatchai, along with Pol. Maj. Gen. Pongpipat Siripornwiwat and other officers, later convened at the Mae Tho checkpoint to stress the significance of a comprehensive investigation and prosecution of all involved parties.
The meeting included notable attendees such as Pol. Maj. Gen. Natthawut Phakphum, Pol. Maj. Gen. Songphon Sangkhasem, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Kittisap Thongsiwong. During the visit, Pol. Gen. Thatchai instructed the expansion of the investigation based on existing evidence to uncover any additional participants in the unlawful activities.
Authorities were also directed to enhance patrols at border checkpoints, monitor suspicious activities, and address potential indicators of forced or deceptive recruitment into illegal activities, while ensuring respect for individual rights. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to prevent the use of Thailand as a transit route for illegal operations.
This proactive approach underscores the Royal Thai Police's commitment to prosecuting offenders, expanding investigations, and coordinating with relevant agencies to protect potential victims of human trafficking.