MAE SOT, Thailand – Thai military authorities intercepted 18 Ethiopian nationals who had illegally entered the country from Myanmar during a New Year’s Day border patrol, officials confirmed on January 1, 2026. The group was discovered in a remote area of Mae Sot district, Tak province, and taken into custody for violating immigration laws.

More illegal border crossers from Myanmar caught in Chiang Mai

The interception occurred in the vicinity of Moo 3, Ban Tha-At, within Tha Sai Luat subdistrict, an area adjacent to the porous Thai–Myanmar border. A routine surveillance unit from the Rachamanu Task Force noticed suspicious activity and approached the group for inspection. Upon investigation, all 18 individuals—identified as 15 men and three women from Ethiopia—admitted to having crossed into Thailand through natural, unauthorized border passages.

Authorities reported that the group was attempting to stay in Thailand without legal permission when they were apprehended. Following their detention, the Rachamanu Task Force transferred the individuals to Mae Sot police for legal processing. They now face charges under Thailand’s immigration law for illegal entry.

The operation underscores the ongoing difficulties faced by Thai security forces in monitoring extensive and often rugged border regions, particularly in Tak province, which has long been a transit point for irregular migration. Routine patrols and surveillance remain critical components of border control efforts aimed at preventing unlawful crossings.

Thai Army Intercepts 18 Ethiopians Illegally Entering Thailand from Myanmar

Mae Sot, Tak — Thailand’s Rachamanu Task Force intercepted 18 Ethiopian nationals who had illegally crossed into Thailand from Myanmar, officials said on January 1, 2026.

The operation was carried out… pic.twitter.com/wcora8ib7R

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) January 1, 2026

No injuries were reported during the arrest, and the interception was carried out without incident. Authorities have not disclosed whether the group was connected to any broader smuggling or trafficking network, nor have they indicated if further arrests are anticipated.

Mae Sot police will continue to handle the case in accordance with standard legal procedures. The detained Ethiopians are expected to remain in custody as investigations proceed, with deportation likely following the completion of legal proceedings.

Illegal migrants caught on western border in Kanchanaburi

The arrest highlights the persistent challenges of border security in the region and the continued efforts of Thai authorities to enforce immigration controls amid irregular movement across the frontier.

-Thailand News (TN)