Thailand has recently announced the creation of an international coordination center to combat scammers and cross-border crime, following a meeting with diplomatic representatives from 17 countries on January 31, 2025. The initiative aims to enhance cooperation in combating international crime.
Heading the project is police general Tattya Pedanilabut, who serves as the director of the Center for Combating People’s Trade. The center will operate 24/7, facilitating the exchange of operational information among participating countries. Notable countries including the United States, China, Russia, and Southeast Asian states have expressed their support for this initiative.
General Tatcha stressed the significance of establishing the center as a crucial step in the fight against international crime. As part of efforts to strengthen border control in Thailand, authorities introduced seven additional verification procedures, such as enhanced inspections at airports and checkpoints.
Under the new measures, travelers arriving in specific target areas, such as the Ma-Sot district, without clearly defined travel plans will undergo additional scrutiny. Border services will coordinate with their respective embassies to prevent individuals from being ensnared in fraudulent schemes.
In response, diplomatic missions have pledged their readiness to support this mechanism. Travelers entering Thailand via the Ma-Sot area are now required to provide detailed information about their travel itineraries, akin to protocols followed at international airports.
Authorities have noted that 100% of individuals crossing the border voluntarily do so. While many travel for business or tourism purposes, some lack specific plans. During the meeting, strategies to combat international fraudulent groups, including telephone scammers, were also deliberated.
The announcement of the center’s establishment follows successful police operations, such as the recent rescue of Chinese actor Van Sina from human traffickers. National Police Commissar Kittrat Panpep has ordered heightened surveillance in tourist zones to curb illegal activities.
The center officially commenced operations on February 1, 2025, with daily meetings scheduled for 8:30 AM to analyze the prevailing circumstances. In a show of support, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Thai Foreign Ministry, and other regional countries are backing this initiative.