CHANTABURI – The Royal Thai Navy announced the arrest of 67 Cambodian nationals who had illegally entered Thailand on foot through the border in Chanthaburi province. The early morning operation on January 3, 2026, highlights ongoing border security efforts amid persistent migration driven by economic hardship.

Cambodia Repatriates 162 Detained Thais via Chanthaburi Border

According to Rear Admiral Parat Rattanachaiphan, Navy Spokesman, the detainees—comprising 35 men, 25 women, and seven children—were intercepted around 5:00 a.m. in Pong Nam Ron district. The operation was carried out by the Chanthaburi Marine Task Force in coordination with police and immigration units under the Chanthaburi–Trat Border Defence Command.

Authorities stated that the group had crossed into Thailand without authorization, part of what officials describe as a continued challenge of irregular migration along the eastern border. The navy emphasized that such operations are critical to maintaining national sovereignty and security, noting concerns that illegal crossings may be exploited by transnational criminal networks.

All detainees were treated in compliance with the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act B.E. 2565 (2022). Women and children were provided with water, food, and basic medical care at the scene before being transferred to Ban Paeng Police Station for legal processing and preparation for repatriation.

Cambodia deported 162 Thai nationals back to Thailand today, after they were released from a prison in the city of Siem Reap.

Meanwhile, the Thai Navy reports that Thai Marines and Chanthaburi provincial police arrested 67 Cambodians at dawn today, as they tried to sneak across… pic.twitter.com/2cFKyrjWUU

— Thai PBS World (@ThaiPBSWorld) January 3, 2026

Preliminary interviews indicated that the migrants were driven by severe economic difficulties, including unemployment and insufficient income to support their families in Cambodia. Many stated they had undertaken the journey in search of work opportunities in Thailand.

The navy reiterated that while enforcement against illegal entry remains a priority, operations are conducted with respect for human rights and humane treatment. It also expressed support for broader regional cooperation to address the root causes of migration, such as poverty and lack of livelihood opportunities.

Thai-Cambodian Border Talks Begin in Chanthaburi Amid Ceasefire Hopes

The group is expected to be deported to Cambodia following legal proceedings.

-Thailand News (TN)