Immigration Police Arrest 17 Chinese Workers in Chachoengsao

CHACHOENGSAO — 10 September 2026, Immigration police raided a factory in Chachoengsao and arrested 17 Chinese workers allegedly working without valid work permits, with the group found performing jobs ranging from factory management to construction.

The operation was ordered by Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprod Sirisukha, commander of Immigration Division 3, and Pol. Col. Chinnawut Tangwonglert, deputy commander of Immigration Division 3.

A team led by Pol. Col. Suriya Phuangsomphat, superintendent of the Investigation Division of Immigration Division 3, was sent to inspect Tuopu Technology in Plaeng Yao district after receiving information that Chinese nationals were allegedly being employed without permission, including in occupations legally reserved for Thai citizens.

Officers found 17 Chinese nationals working at the facility in various roles, including factory management, machinery installation and operation, electrical wiring, accounting and construction. A check of their documents found that they did not have valid work permits.

All 17 were arrested and charged with being foreigners working without a work permit or performing work beyond the scope permitted under their authorization. They were taken to Plaeng Yao Police Station in Chachoengsao for legal proceedings.

Immigration officers are also expanding their investigation into the hiring arrangements, the company's management structure and the roles of its directors, authorized executives, employers and other individuals involved. Investigators are collecting employment documents, payment records, immigration entry and exit information and witness statements to determine whether any individuals or parties employed foreigners without authorization or assisted in the alleged offences.

Authorities said that if anyone is found to have violated the law or engaged in conduct that warrants revocation of their permission to remain in Thailand, their permission to stay will be revoked.