Bangkok, Thailand — In a significant enforcement action, Thai immigration authorities apprehended a Filipina woman who had overstayed her visa by more than four years. The woman, identified only as Mary, had managed to evade detection despite entering and exiting Thailand 26 times, according to various Thai news agencies.

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Suspicious Behavior at Local Church

The discovery was made on June 16 during a routine inspection aimed at curbing immigration-related offenses. Officers focused their efforts on areas in Bangkok known to be frequented by foreigners. At a local church, they noticed Mary acting suspiciously. When asked to present her passport, she was unable to do so, prompting further investigation.

The crackdown against foreigners who overstay continue. #Thailand #Filipino https://t.co/RpfSMub4NT pic.twitter.com/gZNGaFaGPy

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) June 17, 2024

Overstayed Visa by Four Years

Authorities revealed that Mary, 42, last entered Thailand on March 2, 2020, on a 30-day visa exemption, which expired on March 31, 2020. Since then, there had been no record of her applying for a visa extension, resulting in an overstay of more than four years.
Legal Consequences and Repatriation

Mary has been charged with “being a foreigner staying in the kingdom after the permission had expired.” After being informed of her rights, she was handed over to the Immigration Office for further legal proceedings. Thai authorities are now coordinating her repatriation to the Philippines.

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Broader Efforts to Enforce Immigration Laws

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of Thai immigration authorities to enforce visa regulations and maintain national security. The routine inspections are part of a broader strategy to address immigration-related offenses and ensure compliance with Thai laws.

-Thailand News (TN)