Chiang Rai – The district chief of Mae Sai has joined forces with security agencies to deploy integrated patrols along the entire Lam Nam Sai river border after a video showing groups of foreign workers illegally crossing at night near Border Checkpoint 1 went viral on social media. Authorities suspect that Thai individuals are assisting behind the scenes and emphasize that anyone caught will face strict prosecution.
On 7 July 2026, reporters reported that at 9:00 p.m. on 6 July 2026, Mr. Warayut Khombun, Mae Sai district chief of Chiang Rai province, along with Mr. Anon Khankham, district chief officer in charge of security affairs, led members of the Mae Sai Territorial Defense Volunteers (Or Sor) in a joint operation with Mae Sai Police, Chiang Rai Immigration, the Special Task Force of Tak Army, Pha Muang Task Force, Mae Sai District Public Health, and the Village Security Team (Chor Ror Bor) of Ban Mae Sai, Village No. 1, Wiang Pang Kham Subdistrict.
The officials jointly conducted foot patrols with strict vigilance along the border area, especially near the Huafai and Sailomjoy communities, identified as high-risk points to intercept and prevent individuals attempting illegal border crossings into the kingdom, as well as to curb related criminal activities.
This follows earlier heavy criticism on social media after images circulated showing groups of foreigners trying to cross the Lam Nam Sai river illegally during day and night near the Thai-Myanmar border, close to the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Checkpoint 1. This area is believed to be within Wiang Pang Kham and Mae Sai subdistricts. The audacious nature of these acts suggests the involvement of networks with Thai accomplices providing assistance behind the scenes.
The Mae Sai district chief issued an urgent order to all village heads in border areas to organize their village security teams to conduct close monitoring patrols and watch duties. If any irregularities or illegal activities are detected, they are instructed to coordinate immediately with security agencies for prompt arrest operations and report directly to the district chief without delay.
However, during the patrols conducted by officials the previous night, no additional groups or illegal crossers were found. Nevertheless, authorities will maintain their presence and continue to intensify patrols in the area to pressure and prevent illegal networks from exploiting natural routes for unlawful activities.