Cambodian migrant workers were caught attempting to cross the border illegally to seek work in Thailand via Banteay Meanchey province. POLICE
As of the first week of June, almost 60 migrant workers were caught attempting to cross the border illegally to seek work in Thailand via Banteay Meanchey province. The workers were warned against repeating the offence before their release.
After the Cambodian and Thai governments agreed to temporally open the border gates in early May, many workers rushed to apply for border passes so they could return to Thailand legally, according to relevant authorities.
Some workers – who were without passports, or who had used them as collateral for loans – took the risk of crossing the border illegally, despite tightened security levels.
Suong Sao, commander of the 815th Border Police Battalion of Banteay Meanchey province, said on June 7 that border forces – in cooperation with the Chambak commune police and Poipet town armed forces – had launched an operation which caught 59 workers, 21 of them women, attempting to sneak into Thailand.
Sao said the captures took place in Malai district, noting that 44 people were intercepted on June 4 and 15 on June 6.
“The workers were from Banteay Meanchey, Siem Reap, Battambang, Kampot, Prey Veng, Oddar Meanchey, Kampong Speu and Tbong Khmum provinces. They were allowed to return to their respective homes after we had reprimanded them and made them sign contracts stating they would not attempt it again,” he said, adding that he had instructed the armed forces to remain focused on cross-border crimes, especially illegal crossings by workers.
Roeum Bunrith, Kbal Tomnop border police chief in Banteay Meanchey province, said migrant workers were continuing to attempt the crossing, despite the increased security.
“The authorities work day and night to educate them about the right way to work abroad and prevent them from crossing the border illegally. Illegal crossings mean they are taking many risks, not just from authorities,” he said.
The officer added that based on what he had learned from questioning them, the majority had made the decision to try it because they either had no passport or no money.
“Many do not have passports. When their livelihoods are threatened or they cannot service debts, they make the decision to take the risk of sneaking across the border. Despite widespread education campaigns and the increased patrols, they are still trying it. We are mindful that these people are our compatriots, so we merely warn them and send them home without penalties,” he said.
In neighbouring Battambang province, Kamrieng district governor Koeun Satya said that since the Doung International Border Checkpoint in the district was temporarily reopened, workers have rushed to collect the required documents to make their migrations legal.
“We disseminate warnings with loudspeakers in the village and commune, telling the public that they should not attempt to cross the border without the necessary paperwork. As of the beginning of June, there have been no illegal crossings,” he said.
