Police Commissioner Orders Crackdown on Threat Groups in Chonburi

Chonburi: The Commissioner General of Police visited Chonburi and ordered a crackdown on all groups posing a threat to public peace and order. The Commissioner General instructed decisive action against a group of Cambodian teenagers who threatened and defied authorities. He emphasized that the police are fully prepared to protect both Thai citizens and foreigners and will not tolerate any illegal acts.

According to Thai News Agency, Police General Kittiratt Phanphet, Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, along with Police Lieutenant General Chaitpoj Suwannarak, traveled to Chonburi Provincial Police Station to follow up on the case of a group of over 10 Cambodian teenagers involved in activities that caused unrest in Chonburi and Rayong provinces. Police have arrested and prosecuted three individuals and are actively pursuing the remaining members to bring them to justice.

The Commissioner General has directed Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Surachetphong, Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, and other officials to expedite the investigation and arrest all perpetrators. A Cambodian national, believed to be the ringleader, along with two accomplices, have been arrested and initially charged with possessing and using explosives without permission, carrying weapons in public without reasonable cause, and causing public nuisance. Following the completion of criminal proceedings, Chonburi Provincial Police will coordinate with relevant agencies, particularly the Immigration Bureau, to consider further action under immigration laws to prevent similar incidents and maintain public order.

The Commissioner General of Police reiterated that Thailand welcomes all foreigners to travel, work, and reside in the country, ensuring their safety and maintaining peace and order. However, all must abide by Thai law. Any illegal acts threatening peace in Thailand will be prosecuted decisively.

The deputy spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police stated that responsible agencies, including Provincial Police Region 2 and the Immigration Bureau, are instructed to investigate local information and groups of foreigners in the area. Violations of the law will result in immediate action, including prosecution and strict enforcement, and may lead to revocation of residency permits and other relevant legal consequences.

Furthermore, it is stressed that supporting illegal activities, directly or indirectly, is a serious offense under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979) and its amendments, punishable by imprisonment and fines.