Laotian authorities repatriated 24 Thai nationals through the Chiang Khong checkpoint. Most were linked to a call center scam gang impersonating police officers. Mobile phones, laptops, and passports were seized for prosecution.
On 1 July 2026, it was reported that at 3:00 p.m. on 30 June, at the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge No. 4 border checkpoint in Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province, Chiang Rai Immigration Police collaborated with Technology Crime Suppression Division 4 (TCSD4), the Anti-Human Trafficking Division, Chiang Rai Social Development and Human Security Office, local administrative officials, and the Mekong Riverine Patrol Unit to receive 24 Thai nationals repatriated by Bokeo Province authorities, Laos, for legal action.
The handover followed the detainee transfer memorandum No. 0856 dated 30 June 2026, when Bokeo police handed over 24 detained Thai nationals to Thai authorities at 3:30 p.m., comprising 15 men and 9 women.
The detainees ranged in age from 19 to 41, coming from various provinces nationwide. Some used border passes to cross the border area. Authorities found two individuals with significant arrest warrants: Mr. Sarayu, age 25, with two warrants from Phetchabun and Maha Sarakham provincial courts dated 27 May 2026, for fraud and Computer Crime Act violations.
Also, Mr. Somsak, age 33, has a warrant from the Phra Nakhon Tai District Court dated 23 February 2023 (Bang Rak Police Station) on charges of fraud and Computer Crime Act violations.
Additionally, Laotian authorities handed over seized evidence to Thai officials for case files and legal procedures, including 5 iPhones, 5 Vivo mobile phones, 1 Samsung phone, 4 laptops, and 20 passports.
After receiving the detainees, Thai officials conducted screening, questioning, and thorough background checks. TCSD4 will investigate connections to technology crime syndicates and call center gangs. Relevant agencies will pursue legal action against those involved in offenses. Suspected victims will be separated and assisted according to state procedures.
