The repatriation effort is part of India’s larger campaign to assist citizens trapped in cross-border scam networks in Southeast Asia
Nearly 200 Indian nationals detained in Thailand after crossing illegally from Myanmar have been repatriated to India by two special Indian Air Force (IAF) flights, the Indian Embassy in Bangkok confirmed.
The operation took place from Mae Sot, a Thai border town, under close coordination between the Indian Embassy, the Consulate of India in Chiang Mai, and Thai authorities. Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul personally inspected the repatriation process and met Indian Ambassador Nagesh Singh at the airport.
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for India’s swift action and reiterated Thailand’s support in facilitating the return of Indian nationals who were recently released from cyber scam centres operating in Myanmar. The embassy said both sides reaffirmed their commitment to combating transnational crimes, including cyber scams and human trafficking.
Indian authorities continue to work with Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia to identify and rescue nationals in similar distress
According to official information, the 197 Indians were detained for violating Thai immigration laws after entering from Myanmar without proper documentation. Many had reportedly been lured to Myanmar on false job promises and later forced to work in illegal online operations.
The Indian Embassy urged citizens to verify job offers and recruiter credentials before accepting overseas employment. It also reminded travellers that Thailand’s visa-free entry policy for Indians applies strictly to tourism and short business trips, not for employment purposes.
