Songkhla: The Songkhla Immigration Investigation Unit, in collaboration with the Pattani Immigration Investigation Unit, successfully intercepted a vehicle carrying nine Afghan migrants who were attempting to enter the country illegally. The operation took place on the Hat Yai Waste Disposal Road in Songkhla Province and at the Ko Mo Kaeng Checkpoint in Nong Chik District, Pattani Province. Alongside the migrants, nine suspects were also apprehended.
According to Thai News Agency, the driver of the intercepted vehicle confessed that he had been hired by a Malaysian man to transport the migrants from Songkhla Province to Su-ngai Kolok District, Narathiwat Province, for a fee of 3,000 baht per person. The investigation revealed that the migrants had illegally entered Thailand through a natural route on the Thai-Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo Province, with the ultimate goal of reaching Malaysia. Each migrant reportedly paid approximately 120,000 baht for the journey.
The authorities have arrested and prosecuted the three Thai nationals involved in transporting the migrants, along with the Afghan individuals. The investigation is being expedited to dismantle the broader network of illegal labor traffickers, focusing on uncovering the involvement of brokers and transporters. The incident highlights ongoing efforts by Thai immigration units to combat illegal trafficking and ensure border security.