15-12-2023 (BANGKOK) In a collaborative effort between Thai and Myanmar authorities, another 111 Thai nationals who found themselves stranded amid conflict in northern Shan State, Myanmar, returned to Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai on Friday.
Colonel Thura Zaw Lwin Soe, the tactical operations commander for Tachileik—a border town opposite Mae Sai—facilitated the handover of the returnees to Thai authorities. On their arrival, the group was welcomed by Colonel Natee Timsen, commander of the Thap Chao Tak Task Force of the Pha Muang Force. Colonel Natee also holds the position of Thai chairman of the Thailand-Myanmar Township Border Committee, underlining the coordinated efforts between the two nations.
This marks the fourth group of Thais repatriated overland from Myanmar, bringing the total number of returnees to 179. The smooth repatriation process reflects the robust relationship between the armed forces of Thailand and Myanmar.
Upon their return, the individuals underwent health screenings and immigration procedures. Notably, 10 of the returnees, comprising eight men and two women, who were wanted on arrest warrants in Thailand, were handed over to Mae Sai police.
The remaining individuals were relocated to temporary shelters. The men found shelter at the headquarters of the territorial defence volunteer company, while the women were accommodated at the New Life Centre Foundation in Muang district, Chiang Rai. These individuals will undergo further questioning as part of the repatriation process.
