Bangkok Labor Office Conducts Integrated Crackdown on Popular Market, Arrests 9 Illegal Foreign Workers

Bangkok Labor Office Conducts Integrated Crackdown on Popular Market, Arrests 9 Illegal Foreign Workers, Reaffirms Protection of Thai Workers' Rights. At 9:30 AM on May 21, 2025, the Bangkok Labor Office launched an integrated operation with labor agencies to inspect foreign workers at the Sai Yai Market area based on hotline complaint 1374, resulting in the arrest of 9 foreign workers engaged in illegal employment. The operation stressed strict law enforcement to ensure fairness in the labor system and protect Thai workers' rights.

The enforcement operation was conducted by the Bangkok Labor Office in coordination with the Bangkok Employment Office, Area 5, and relevant officials who investigated complaint number 7671 regarding foreign workers at AC Market in Sai Yai, Sai Yai District, Bangkok. During the inspection, multiple foreign workers were found working, and although some had valid work permits, they were found to be working beyond their authorized rights and job categories. Officers detained them for investigation and legal proceedings.

A total of 9 foreign workers were detained, comprising 4 Burmese men and 1 Burmese woman, 1 Lao man and 3 Lao women.

All detainees were initially charged with being foreign nationals without work permits and working beyond their authorized scope, specifically engaging in retail sales—violations under Section 8 with penalties under Section 101 of the Foreign Workers Management Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and its amendments in B.E. 2561 (2018).

Following the arrests, the officers transferred the suspects to Sai Yai Police Station for further legal proceedings. The operation was conducted smoothly.

This enforcement action demonstrates the government's strict legal approach to regulating illegal foreign workers and reflects the integrated cooperation among all agencies to maintain labor security and build public confidence in the area on an ongoing basis.