Regarding the News Circulated about a Rumour that the Thai Military Has Arrested

and Deported Illegal Cambodian Labour

On 13 June 2014, Mr. Sek Wannamethee, Director-General of Department of
Information and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs addressed the news
circulated about a rumor which claimed that the Thai Military, by order of the National
Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has captured illegal Cambodian workers and ordered
their deportation. In certain newspaper, these rumours also include the militarys abusive
treatment of illegal workers, resulting in deaths and injuries. After an inquiry with concerned
agencies, it has been found that these rumours are groundless and unfounded as well as the
source of such rumours have not been identified. Such rumours have caused large number of
illegal Cambodian workers to report and register themselves with Thai agencies. The Thai
immigration office at Sa Kaeo province have therefore collaborated with Burapha Command,
Royal Thai Army in arranging transportation for these workers to return to Cambodia. Such
action is intended to facilitate the return of these workers to Cambodia and not deport them
in an abusive manner as appeared in the news.
In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have specifically inquired the Army
spokesperson Sirichan Ngathong who denied these rumours, explaining that the intention of
the NCPO is to clean up society from illegal activities which include gambling, drugs and
illegal workers. These actions will in no manner affect the legal workers in Thailand. Col.
Winthai Suvaree, army spokesperson, further elaborated that the clean up process of illegal
workers will take place gradually with the intention not to affect Thai businesses that rely on
foreign workers.
The Thai government agencies are well aware of the role and importance of foreign
labour from our neighbouring countries play in Thai economy and development. In this
connection, it is imperative that there is an integrated management system to take care of
these workers so that they will not be taken advantage of by their employers. Hence, the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to recommend foreign labour to seek employment
through relevant Thai official channels so that the foreign workers will receive proper welfare
and protection.

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Press Division
13 June 2014