Myanmar migrants in Thailand fear safety amid intensified crackdown

By Admin 27 Jan 2026

DMG Newsroom

27 January 2026, Mrauk U

Myanmar migrants in Thailand say they are increasingly worried about their safety as Thai authorities intensify arrests and crackdowns on undocumented workers.

Following a directive issued by the Thai Ministry of Labour on January 14 to arrest and legalize undocumented foreign nationals, detentions have surged, with Myanmar citizens accounting for a large proportion of those affected, according to migrants.

“Those with incomplete documents are being targeted. Not only the police but also Thai nationalist groups locally known as the Mustache or Hnuad group are hunting down undocumented Myanmar people. We have to travel with extreme caution. Those without any papers are in deep trouble,” a Myanmar woman living in Thailand told DMG.

The Mustache group, a self-described Thai nationalist organization, has reportedly been carrying out acts of violence and intimidation against Myanmar nationals. Migrants said the group has arbitrarily detained people, physically assaulted them and extorted money from Myanmar citizens on the streets.

Inspections at factories, restaurants and residential areas with large Myanmar worker populations have also intensified.

“The situation in Bangkok is deteriorating. There are more frequent spot checks and raids. In some areas, groups of Thai youths are attacking Myanmar passersby with sharp objects or stealing their phones. We are living in a constant state of insecurity,” another Myanmar worker in Thailand said.

Since the military coup and the subsequent enforcement of the conscription law, combined with economic hardship and job losses under the military regime, large numbers of Myanmar citizens have fled to Thailand and other neighbouring countries.

“Some Thai locals report Myanmar migrants to the authorities over lifestyle differences or perceived disturbances, while others do so out of pure xenophobia. This has led to more arrests and heavy fines. As citizens, they have full rights, so we must be extremely careful in everything we do,” another migrant added.

Many detained Myanmar migrants are being deported through border gates. However, there are serious concerns that once handed over, they face the risk of forced recruitment into the military by the junta.