Thailand Targets Cambodian Crime Ring: Numerous Arrests Made
BANGKOK—Thai authorities have intensified their efforts against transnational criminal activity, particularly call center scams and online gambling operations linked to Cambodia. This coordinated crackdown, spearheaded by high-ranking Thai police officials, signals a new era of cross-border cooperation and a strengthened legal approach to combat these pervasive crimes.
Police General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Senior Inspector General, completed a two-day diplomatic mission to Cambodia on March 13–14, 2025. Orchestrated by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Police Commissioner General Kittharat Phanpetch, the visit focused on bolstering collaboration with Cambodian authorities. Meetings with Cambodia’s National Police, Immigration Office, and Telecommunications Regulator (TRC) specifically addressed the burgeoning problem of Thai-operated call center fraud based in Cambodia.
This mission followed a successful Cambodian operation in Poipet, a Cambodian border town, resulting in the arrest of 119 Thai nationals implicated in various criminal activities. This cooperative effort represents a critical turning point in the fight against these cross-border operations.
“These criminals exploit our shared border to evade Thai law enforcement while preying on Thai citizens,” explained Police General Thatchai. He further highlighted a previously exploited legal loophole: “Until recently, those apprehended in Cambodia faced minimal penalties, typically for illegal entry, because their crimes weren’t directed at Cambodian citizens. Upon deportation to Thailand, many falsely claimed to be victims of human trafficking to avoid serious prosecution.” This new cooperative approach aims to shut down this avenue of escape.
Concurrently, domestic law enforcement achieved a significant victory against online gambling. Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan, Commander of the Technology Crime Investigation Bureau (TCIB), announced the arrest of several Thai nationals operating an online gambling ring connected to the Poipet network.
The arrests followed a Cambodian police raid on the K2 building in Poipet on February 23, detaining 15 Thai individuals. Subsequent analysis of their mobile phones by Thai cyber police revealed their involvement in organizing online gambling platforms, specifically Hi-Lo and Pok Deng, popular card games in Thailand. These individuals worked in shifts, received salaries, and were provided accommodation by their employers.
Based on this evidence, Thai authorities secured arrest warrants for five key figures: Ms. Phimwara (59, Bangkok); Ms. Sirinipa (21, Bueng Kan Province); Ms. Jananya (35, Samut Prakan Province); Mr. Bandit (22, Bangkok); and Mr. Nattapong (26). These individuals allegedly managed private online gambling groups with a combined membership of approximately 30,000. Police apprehended them at a resort in Pathum Thani Province, where they were live-streaming gambling sessions. Confiscated items included mobile phones, gambling paraphernalia, and other evidence related to their criminal enterprise.
These operations demonstrate a crucial shift in Thailand’s legal tactics against transnational crime. Instead of relying on less impactful charges, authorities are now utilizing the full weight of Thailand’s transnational organized crime laws. Of the 119 individuals arrested in Poipet, 115 now face charges carrying potential 15-year prison sentences. Prosecutors are pursuing charges ranging from criminal conspiracy and fraud to information falsification, with asset forfeiture proceedings underway. The online gambling ring operators face equally serious charges, including participation in a transnational criminal organization, involvement in a secret society, and jointly organizing illegal gambling.
“The Royal Thai Police is fully committed to shielding Thai citizens from these predatory operations,” affirmed Police General Thatchai. He added, “Our partnership with Cambodia guarantees these criminals will face justice in Thailand, sending a clear deterrent message.” These cases mark the first prosecutions under the full scope of Thailand’s transnational crime legislation, effectively closing loopholes previously exploited by perpetrators. This strengthened legal framework, coupled with increased international collaboration, represents a promising development in the ongoing battle against transnational crime.
