In a dramatic sweep to curb illegal foreign employment in the bustling region of Chon Buri, Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn has set into motion an intensified crackdown, dubbed the Tri-Thai Protectors operation. This special task force is on a mission to cleanse the province of unauthorized foreign workers following reports highlighting employment malpractices. Yesterday, on the 26th of March, the spotlight was on Chinese businesses in Si Racha district—drawing attention after a wave of complaints about illegal workers.
The operation, spearheaded by the meticulous Inspector General Pichet Thongphun alongside the dynamic Police Lieutenant Colonel Amnat Chooklin, marshaled a troop from the eastern special task force and representatives from the Department of Employment. Their focus was laser sharp as they zeroed in on the Bo Win subdistrict. Their efforts proved fruitful yet alarming, as nine illegal workers were unearthed—four hailing from China, another four from Myanmar, alongside an individual from an ethnic minority. These individuals, it was unveiled, were deep in work that they had no permits for, caught in activities beyond their authorization and cutting into the opportunities meant for Thai workers. Those caught were swiftly handed over to the Bo Win Police Station, securing a steady path towards prosecution.
Pipat, while addressing the situation, made it crystal clear that such inspections are a staple act, not a stir created by recent parliamentary whispers. The minister firmly stated that these scrutinies are ongoing, with officials dedicated to upholding the law, where violators are not only penalized but face deportation. The Labour Ministry holds a no-nonsense policy in safeguarding Thai employment, with a commitment untarnished by any hidden agendas.
The report disclosed by the Department of Employment brought to light striking numbers: over 50,000 Chinese workers possess legal permits, predominantly in the energetic Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Yet, a shadow looms over these statistics as numerous individuals admit entry via tourist visas, slipping through the cracks to find illegal employment, particularly in services-oriented sectors such as restaurants and construction. This encroachment on Thai jobs is a rising concern, highlighted further by an intensive inspection spree between June 2024 and March 2025, which scrutinized over 52,000 establishments. Of the 724,000 workers dissected under the microscope, 2,010 violations sprang to the surface, painting a daunting picture.
The Tri-Thai Protectors were resolute, focusing intently on 2,198 Chinese workers, uncovering 207 specific violations. Pipat reiterated that while Thailand presents an open welcome to foreign investors, adherence to regulations cannot be compromised. Numerous Chinese enterprises operate independently, employing Chinese resources and workforce, thus casting a direct impact on local employment dynamics and the regional economy.
In response, the ministry has rolled out an action plan crammed with urgent measures: from nominee inspections, delving into fictitious business operations, re-assessing foreign worker quotas in frail areas, boosting the promotion of Thai employment initiatives, to ramping up inspection efforts significantly in the EEC and tourists-favored cities, as detailed in a report from KhaoSod. Acknowledging the uphill battle that this persistent issue presents, Pipat showcased the ministry’s sincere drive towards resolution. Encouragingly, he extended an invitation to the public to step forward with any additional intelligence, assuring that the ministry remains steadfastly proactive and impartial through these efforts.
The landscape of Thailand’s labour sector continues to transform amidst these rigorous efforts, with the Tri-Thai Protectors at the forefront, wielding accountability and vigilance as their guiding principles in this ongoing saga against unlawful employment practices.
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