BANGKOK — Thai security officials reported today that Colonel Saw Chit Thu, also known as Maung Chit Thu, leader of the Border Guard Force (BGF/KNA), has pledged to cooperate with Thai authorities in combating illegal online operations and scammer networks, marking a significant shift in position.
In an immediate demonstration of this commitment, BGF forces on February 14 began screening over 600 foreign nationals at a nine-story facility in Shwe Kokko’s Yatai New City project, located opposite Thailand’s Wang Kaew village in Mae Sot district, Tak province.
Those found to be working illegally will be repatriated through Thailand to their home countries, though the number of Thai nationals among them remains unconfirmed.
The announcement comes on the same day Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held a high-level security meeting at Government House with Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and senior military officials to address transnational scam operations in Myanmar and Cambodia. The Prime Minister has demanded a comprehensive action plan within 30 days, emphasizing the serious threat these criminal networks pose to public safety.
Thai authorities have been applying mounting pressure on BGF, including cutting off electricity, fuel, and internet services to the Myanmar side. Maung Chit Thu himself faces potential human trafficking charges, with the Thai Department of Special Investigation (DSI) currently gathering evidence regarding a 2022 case involving eight Indian nationals.
The BGF’s action follows similar moves by the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), which recently set a February 28 deadline for Chinese operators to leave the Phaya Tong Su area opposite Thailand’s Kanchanaburi province.
The DKBA has already facilitated the release of 321 victims from the Myawaddy area, with 260 people freed on February 12 following an initial group of 61 on February 6.
________
Related articles:
