Sa kaeo: ‘Rome’ and ‘Teng’ traveled to Sa Kaeo to inspect the Thai-Cambodian border amid rising concerns over illegal activities. The Central Investigation Bureau, Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and other administrative agencies participated in the visit to assess whether the Cambodian side serves as a base for call centers and scammers. Information suggests significant capital is backing these operations from within Cambodian power circles. A closed-door meeting is planned for further discussion, and there are suggestions to install sensor poles to enhance border security.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives, visited Aranyaprathet District with the House Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform. The visit aimed to resolve security issues and manage Thai-Cambodian border affairs. Security agencies, district chiefs, the Department of Provincial Administration, and officers from the Department of Special Investigation and the Central Investigation Bureau were present.
The visit began at a location behind Aranyaprathet Department Store, where Pol. Col. Methee Khamtem, Commander of the 12th Ranger Regiment Control Unit, reported the area is frequently used for illegal crossings into Cambodia. Although the area is sealed, illegal entry and exit persist. Despite daily arrests, gaps remain, including dug-out passages under the ground. The military admits monitoring is challenging due to private land ownership in the area.
Mr. Rangsiman queried about internet signals, and Pol. Col. Methee explained that strict border control measures have reduced signal emissions, limiting telephone signals to the Thai side only. The Cambodian side does not receive signals. The border is fortified with barbed wire, regular checkpoints, patrols, and CCTV monitoring 24/7. The border protection system addresses drug problems, technology crimes, and call center gangs in collaboration with Cambodian counterparts.
Mr. Rangsiman stated that the committee and House leaders had prepared a report on call center gangs for the government. Although progress has been made in dismantling gangs, more work is needed on the Cambodian side. The field visit aimed to understand the call center issue better and enhance suppression efforts using information from the Immanuel Foundation.
Call center gangs are not solely about money fraud; human trafficking is a significant global concern. Thai laws may not apply in neighboring countries, but international legal mechanisms should be leveraged. The committee plans to discuss this further, emphasizing the need for international cooperation, especially with Japan.
The Department of Special Investigation joined the visit, and Mr. Rangsiman recognized the need for more support in addressing border issues. The committee plans to discuss policies, including the Seal Stop Safe policy, and the potential for cutting off internet and electricity to Cambodia if necessary.
Mr. Rangsiman identified a suspicious building on the Cambodian side possibly linked to call center gangs. He advocated for international collaboration to tackle the issue, particularly with Japan. The proposed 300 million baht cross-border fence project by the Sa Kaeo Governor was mentioned, though Mr. Rangsiman, as a legislator, cannot propose it himself.
Mr. Rangsiman suggested investing in sensor poles and radar technology to detect crossings, creating jobs in Thailand. Despite fences, call center gangs continue to cross the border, indicating the need for technological solutions.
The visit will include discussions on capital groups behind call center gangs, with new information expected tomorrow. Encouragement was expressed for those working on these issues.
Mr. Chutiphong Phiphobhinyo, Rayong MP for the Prachachon Party, noted the wall was built by the Thai private sector, leaving the Cambodian side open. Thai officials are tasked with inspections, as Cambodian authorities have not taken responsibility.