PATTAYA – Immigration police in Chonburi have arrested a 22-year-old Uzbek woman wanted under an Interpol Red Notice for her alleged involvement in a transnational human trafficking network. The suspect, identified as Mrs. A, was detained after appearing at Chonburi Immigration to apply for a visa extension, where officers discovered she had overstayed her visa by 112 days.

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The operation was led by investigators under Pol Col Naphatphong Khositsuriyamanee and Pol Lt Col Kawinwat Arayasuriwong of Chonburi Immigration. Acting on intelligence that a foreign fugitive was hiding in the province, officers reviewed visa application records and confirmed Mrs. A was the subject of an international arrest warrant issued by Uzbek authorities for serious criminal offenses.

According to the Interpol notice, the suspect is allegedly part of a criminal network that lured young women from Uzbekistan with false promises of high-paying jobs in Bangkok and Pattaya. Upon arrival in Thailand, the victims’ passports were reportedly confiscated to prevent their escape. The network then allegedly forced them to work under threat, demanding up to US $5,000 (approximately 170,000 baht) for the return of their documents and freedom.

Following her arrest, Mrs. A was transferred to Pattaya City Police Station to face initial charges for overstaying her visa. Thai authorities are now coordinating with relevant agencies to process her extradition to Uzbekistan in line with international procedures.

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Immigration officials emphasized that the arrest underscores ongoing cooperation between Thailand and international law enforcement agencies to combat transnational crime and prevent the country from being used as a haven by criminals. The action aims to strengthen public safety and maintain confidence among tourists and residents.

-Thailand News (TN)