Laos Sends Back 39 Thai Gambling Admins, Two Wanted
Lao authorities returned 39 Thai online gambling administrators to Thailand through Nong Khai after cracking down on a scam network in Vientiane. Five of the returnees tried to exit the country illegally via natural routes, while two faced arrest warrants for theft and gang‑related crimes. The group had previously worked in Cambodia, earning 15,000‑20,000 baht monthly, and no human‑trafficking victims were identified.
Investigations showed that all 39 had previously worked for online gambling operations in Cambodia. After clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces, the network relocated to Vientiane, Laos, where employees worked two shifts earning an average of 15,000 to 20,000 baht per month. No evidence of human‑trafficking victimisation was found among the group. Five individuals attempted to leave Thailand illegally through natural crossings and will be charged with unlawful exit. Two others were subject to outstanding warrants: one for theft, and another for participation in a transnational criminal organization involving gang activity, robbery, fraud, false computer data entry, and money laundering, including pretending to be someone else to deceive the system.
