The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that 162 Thais, misled into illegal work in Myanmar’s conflict-ridden area of Laukkaing, are now in a secure location pending their return home. The Thai nationals found themselves stranded in the self-administered Kokang region of Shan State, known for frequent unrest and tight movement restrictions.


According to Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Natapanu Nopakun, the Thai embassy in Yangon is coordinating with the Myanmar authorities to facilitate the evacuation despite the challenges posed by the active armed conflict in the region that began on October 27. Efforts to rescue the individuals must be meticulously planned and executed to ensure safety.


While initial reports suggested nearly 200 Thais were detained in Myanmar, it appears the majority have been assisted by local authorities. These individuals, either duped into illegal employment or inadvertently caught in the crossfire, are being provided with temporary shelter and necessary care by the Thai embassy as they await repatriation.


The embassy continues to work on verifying the identities of the Thai citizens and is prepared to assist others who might still be in the area.

Thai Nationals Aided in Myanmar Conflict Zone