Sakaeo police launched a proactive operation to surround and search "Rong Kluea Market," arresting three Cambodian migrant workers for illegal entry, and seized contraband cigarettes and tax-evading goods as evidence.
On 8 January 2026, reporters reported that the Royal Thai Police is advancing a proactive policy under the operation "Suppressing Illegal Khmer Entry" to address illegal immigration, human trafficking, and transnational crime. This focuses on key measures such as risk group surveys, personal profiling, proactive searches, and systematic prevention to ensure security and safety in border areas.
At 12:00 PM, police launched a proactive operation at Rong Kluea Market, Pa Rai Subdistrict, Aranyaprathet District, Sakaeo Province, following intelligence of illegal migrant workers infiltrating and committing crimes in this key economic and tourism area. The operation was led by Pol. Col. Jaturaphat Singhahasit, Deputy Commander of Sakaeo Provincial Police, alongside Pol. Col. Damrong Iamphairoj, Chief of Investigation Division; Pol. Col. Chuchat Kongmuang, Chief of Klong Luek Police Station; forces from the 12th Ranger Regiment; special operations units from Provincial Police Region 2; and the Sakaeo Provincial Police Investigation Division. They rigorously searched high-risk areas within the market to intercept illegal migrant workers, prevent crime, and boost safety confidence for residents and tourists.
As a result, officers arrested three Cambodian suspects and seized a large quantity of contraband cigarettes and tax-evading goods, detailed as follows.
The first suspect is Ms. Chea Liang, 60, a Cambodian national from Poipet city. Authorities seized over 60 packs of various foreign-brand cigarettes, multiple leather and fabric belts, and one bicycle. She faces charges of illegal entry and residence, concealing, selling, or possessing goods not cleared by customs, possessing goods for sale without paying excise tax under the Excise Tax Act B.E. 2560 (2017), and working without permission as a foreigner.
The second suspect is Ms. Sanid So, 55, a Cambodian national. Authorities seized 10 packs of foreign cigarettes. She faces charges of concealing or possessing goods not cleared by customs, possessing goods for sale without paying excise tax, and illegal entry into the country.
The third suspect is Ms. Li Pik, 44, a Cambodian national, charged with illegal entry and unlawful residence in the kingdom.
Authorities are currently verifying personal histories and expanding investigations to strictly enforce the law. Klong Luek Police Station urges local business operators and residents to report any suspicious persons or illegal activities to the station at any time to help maintain peace and security in the border area.
