PATHUM THANI, Thailand – A massive raid on a construction site in the Navanakorn industrial area has led to the arrest of 122 foreign workers lacking valid documentation.
An operation coordinated by multiple government agencies targeted the Damac Digital construction site following persistent complaints from local residents. Neighbors had repeatedly reported a notably high number of Chinese workers on the premises, where a 20-story building is under construction.
The coordinated action involved personnel from the Labor Office, Immigration Bureau, Military Intelligence, and the Internal Security Command Operations Command (ISOC). The significant police presence stormed the five-rai (approximately two-acre) site on Wednesday.
Anwohner schlagen Alarm
Upon the arrival of uniformed forces, many workers reportedly attempted to flee the scene. In total, 146 foreign individuals were stopped and processed.
Officials quickly determined that 122 of these workers did not possess valid work permits. The arrested individuals included 86 Chinese nationals, one of whom was a woman, along with 34 workers from Myanmar and two from Cambodia.
In contrast, 24 workers were able to provide proof of legal employment and were released after their details were registered.
Panik und Fluchtversuche auf der Baustelle
Investigators have leveled serious accusations against the detained individuals. Charges are expected to include illegal entry, working outside authorized professional categories, and employment without any permits.
The operation was led by Nattaphon Jitriphot from the Pathum Thani Labor Office and Colonel Kittisak Wattanadet from ISOC. The Central Registration of the Ministry of Labor and the Army Region 1 operational center also participated.
Schwere Vorwürfe der Ermittler
Following the completion of all formalities, authorities prepared to transport the detainees.
The 122 workers were transferred to an Immigration Bureau detention facility in Bangkok. They are now facing deportation procedures and are expected to be removed from Thailand.
Hinter Gittern in Bangkok
The construction project is being carried out by China Electronics System Engineering No. 2 Construction Co., Ltd., known as CESE2, which is part of a Chinese state-owned enterprise.
Authorities have not yet provided details on potential penalties for the employer or further information regarding the construction project itself.
Chinesischer Staatskonzern als Bauherr
This raid is part of ongoing efforts to consistently address complaints concerning foreign laborers. Thai authorities aim to enforce immigration and labor regulations.
The 122 arrested workers will face criminal prosecution and subsequent deportation, while the 24 legally employed individuals were released after verification.