Thai National Police Chief Denies Electricity Use by Neighboring Countries, Targets Call Center Gangs

Bangkok: The national police chief has confirmed that neighboring countries have not utilized electricity from Thailand. “Big Tai” disclosed that there is no evidence of electricity usage by the Thai government being extended to neighboring countries. This revelation comes as efforts intensify to dismantle signal poles, aiming to disrupt the operations of call center gangs.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, addressed the issue of cutting off mobile phone signals that may be exploited for technological crimes in neighboring countries. He revealed that the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has been engaged in these efforts. Investigations by the Technology Crime Investigation Division have uncovered pertinent details concerning personnel, financial routes, and signal towers. Coordination has been established with Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, with the national police inspector visiting these nations for discussions.

Pol. Gen. Kittirat emphasized Thailand’s commitment to bringing individuals with arrest warrants to justice. He noted that the Bank of Thailand has been instrumental in halting irregular financial activities, providing robust cooperation. Each relevant organization and agency is actively fulfilling its responsibilities. Investigations revealed that signal towers believed to be transmitting signals to neighboring countries have been identified, and steps have been taken to dismantle them, redirecting their utility for Thai citizens. These measures are aimed at severing the lifelines of call center gangs.

Discussing the alleged illicit use of electricity in Thailand, Pol. Gen. Kittirat mentioned that initial investigations pointed to generator use. However, there is no current evidence of electricity from the Thai government being used by neighboring countries. The authorities are focused on identifying the origins and routes of those attempting to exploit Thailand as a transit point. With seven defined periods and comprehensive measures, operational units are actively engaged in preventive actions. The police are committed to preventing citizens from falling victim to labor exploitation and human trafficking. As emphasized by the Prime Minister, cutting off illegal sources will prevent illicit activities.

Pol. Gen. Kittirat further explained that the Immigration Bureau is considering the implementation of TM.6 online to screen incoming travelers, a measure aimed at reducing congestion at immigration checkpoints. This online system is under development, with completion expected in the near future. The Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division has been assigned to manage the compiled data. Despite Thailand’s focus on tourism and its visa-free policy, the Immigration Bureau will analyze travel data to identify irregularities and monitor travel frequency for screening and tracking purposes.

Coordination with foreign embassies has been strengthened to prevent illegal entry and activities in Thailand. Pol. Gen. Kittirat stated, “We have informed embassies that they must prevent individuals from entering Thailand illegally or being lured into illicit activities. If we succeed, Thailand will not serve as a transit point. The police are actively working towards this goal.”