No more slack: Thailand tightens the noose on illegal workers

The Government of Thailand is tightening the noose on illegal foreign workers in a sweeping crackdown, with over 2,000 arrests in recent weeks. While the bulk of those detained are undocumented migrants from neighbouring Myanmar, the hunt is expanding to include Western foreigners working illegally in jobs reserved for Thai nationals.

Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director General of the Department of Employment (DOE), revealed a heightened focus on roles like tour operators, masseurs, barbers, and online sellers.

“We are closely monitoring foreigners in these professions.”

Somchai signalled the government’s intent to stamp out illegal employment.

This crackdown is a joint effort between labour officials and immigration police. Labour officials target businesses exploiting migrant workers, while immigration officers focus on unauthorised foreign individuals.

Recent raids have uncovered illegal workers in restaurants, coconut farms, factories, and even construction sites across Thailand. Pattaya, in particular, has seen a focus on condominium projects.

One of the most significant busts involved 20 Chinese nationals running online gambling operations from rented houses in Pattaya. Meanwhile, smaller cases include Russian taxi drivers in Phuket, a mobile Ukrainian manicurist, a Japanese tour guide in Chiang Mai, and a British DJ in Pattaya. Those found guilty face deportation, blacklisting, and, for those from distant countries, jail until they can secure a ticket home.

New biometric technology is playing a critical role in tightening the net on illegal entrants, with police using advanced systems to spot facial irregularities and flag violators. Thailand’s immigration spokesperson mentioned the government’s ambition to streamline visitor authorisations with electronic visas and improved entry systems, targeting 2025 for full integration, reported Pattaya Mail.

In related news, police raided a construction camp in Uthai district, Ayutthaya province, early morning on September 24, apprehending 272 illegal Myanmar workers. Officials from the Uthai district office and Ayutthaya provincial hall arrived at the camp in Nong Namsom subdistrict at around 6am.