Bangkok (VNA) - Amid a sweeping crackdown on transnational crime linked to call centre scams and human trafficking, Thai authorities have warned that businesses aiding or facilitating these operations will face severe penalties, including fines exceeding 5 million THB (150,000 USD).
Pol Lt Gen Yingyos Thepchamnong, commissioner of the Provincial Police Region 2, on February 23 announced the “Aran 68 Seal Border” operation, targeting illegal migrants, scam centres and transnational criminals.
As part of the operation, any accommodations found housing individuals connected to these criminal groups or operating without a licence will be penalised, he said.
Shuttle services or drivers facilitating illegal activities may also face harsh consequences, ranging from imprisonment to fines above 5 million THB.
Provincial Police Region 2 is targeting the border provinces of Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi and Trat to pursue criminals involved in cross-border offences and those providing them with services such as financial transactions, lodging and transport, Pol Lt Gen Yingyos said.
He urged businesses not to engage with these criminals and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
On February 17, a guesthouse in Aranyaprathet district of Sa Kaeo was raided for housing call centre and mule account personnel. The 48-year-old owner, operating without a licence, was sentenced to three months in prison and fined a total of 5.52 million THB./.
