Thai authorities hand over dozens of detained Myanmar workers to regime

By Admin 14 May 2026

DMG Newsroom

14 May 2026, Ranong, Thailand

Ranong Immigration in Thailand announced on Wednesday that Thai authorities handed over 90 Myanmar migrant workers arrested in Ranong Province to the regime.

The deported group includes 65 men and 25 women, including children, who had been living and working as migrants in Ranong Province.

Myanmar workers have expressed concern over the risk of forced conscription as Thai authorities continue handing over arrested migrants to the regime.

“When people without passports are arrested, some are bailed out with money, but others cannot be reached. Some are sent directly back to Myanmar. We are deeply worried when they end up in the hands of the Myanmar military. They might release them, or they might not. It is entirely up to them once they have them. Our biggest fears are being taken as porters or being forced to serve as soldiers,” said a Myanmar migrant worker in Thailand.

On May 12, Thai authorities issued an order stating they will implement a three-step plan to crack down on and remove illegal foreigners in Thailand.

Following the coup in Myanmar, many people have fled to Thailand due to economic downturn, job scarcity, and the regime’s military service law.

Thailand’s measures to remove illegal foreigners have become a major challenge for Myanmar nationals living in the country.

“In factories, those who entered last month without documents but with ID cards have been registered on the ‘pink card’ list. Employers provide guarantees for them even when police come. However, those working outside or as manual laborers have no such protection. If they are caught by police, they are sent back to the border,” another Myanmar worker in Thailand said.

Myanmar migrant workers reportedly face difficulties because permits for legal residency and work in Thailand can only be processed once a year or so.

Due to political instability, unemployment, and the conscription law in Myanmar, the number of people leaving for Thailand, Malaysia, and other countries continues to rise.