
BANGKOK — Thailand has intensified its border security measures in response to recent incidents involving Chinese nationals falling victim to scam operations. The move comes after several high-profile cases, including the disappearance of Chinese actress Wang Xing, who was allegedly lured to Thailand by scammers before being transported to Myanmar.
Message to Reassure Chinese
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an urgent meeting on Friday, January 17, ahead of her scheduled attendance at the Davos forum next week. “These incidents have primarily affected first-time visitors to Thailand, while repeat visitors and regular tourists remain undeterred,” the Prime Minister stated.
She announced plans to record a video message in Chinese, utilizing AI technology for translation, to reassure potential visitors about Thailand’s safety measures.

Tourism Impact and Response
Tourism Minister Surawong Thienthong reported that despite recent concerns, Chinese tourist arrivals have remained stable, with daily numbers averaging around 20,000 visitors, above the usual 16,000-17,000. Overall tourist arrivals from all countries since January 1 have increased by nearly 20% compared to the previous year, reaching approximately 1.7 million visitors.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s offices in China have been working extensively to promote the country ahead of the Chinese New Year period. Officials emphasize that recent incidents involved employment scams using Thailand as a transit point, not cases targeting tourists.
Enhanced Security Measures
Police General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Director of the Anti Human Trafficking Center Royal Thai Police, has implemented new security protocols at border checkpoints, particularly in Mae Sot, Tak Province. The measures include:
- Comprehensive screening of tourists at entry points
- Detailed documentation of travel plans and accommodations
- Enhanced coordination with foreign embassies
- Monthly evaluations of security effectiveness

Regarding Chinese tourists, Pol. Gen. Thatchai said the Thai police have coordinated with the Chinese Embassy to monitor and verify tourist safety at Mae Sot entry points. The embassy has endorsed this approach. Thai police regularly collaborate with various embassies on cases involving foreign nationals.
Regional Considerations
Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai addressed the broader implications of the situation in Myanmar, noting Thailand’s unique position as Myanmar’s largest border neighbor. The government maintains a careful diplomatic approach while facilitating international dialogue with Myanmar.

ASEAN Regional Cooperation
In a significant development for regional security, Thailand is taking a leading role in coordinating ASEAN-wide efforts to combat cross-border scams. Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong announced that Thailand has successfully conducted bilateral discussions with neighboring countries including Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia, resulting in new memorandums of understanding to address these criminal activities.
The issue gained prominence during the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (5th ADGMIN), where all member nations acknowledged facing similar challenges from scam operations. The meeting highlighted call center scams as a key agenda item, demonstrating the ASEAN community’s unified approach to tackling this regional threat.
The Thai government’s comprehensive response combines enhanced local security measures with regional cooperation initiatives, aiming to preserve Thailand’s reputation as a safe tourist destination while addressing the broader challenges of cross-border crime in Southeast Asia.
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