Bangkok: "Operation Dawn in Kaeng Krachan" has successfully led to the arrest of 18 illegal immigrants in the dense forests of Kaeng Krachan, along with a significant seizure of narcotics and firearms.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation collaborated with security forces to conduct 'Operation Dawn in Pa Deng Tai,' targeting a specific area in Ban Pa Deng Tai, Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi Province. The operation resulted in the detention of 18 illegal immigrants and 10 dependents, along with five individuals who were involved in drug-related activities. Authorities seized numerous firearms, ammunition, and related equipment, as well as national flags and uniforms bearing symbols of ethnic minorities from Myanmar.
Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, stated that he received a report from Mr. Nithat Nunsong, Director of the Conservation Area Management Office 3, Phetchaburi Branch, regarding the successful execution of "Operation Dawn at Pa Deng Tai." The operation targeted Ban Pa Deng Tai, Village No. 6, Pa Deng Subdistrict, Kaeng Krachan District, an area that overlaps with Kaeng Krachan National Park and other jurisdictional areas. This mission was in line with government policy aimed at preventing and suppressing influential figures, Chinese-influenced groups, and illegal immigrants employing fraudulent registration methods. The operation was conducted under the orders of Pol. Lt. Gen. Phopchanok Chalanukroh, Governor of Phetchaburi Province, who directed security agencies to integrate efforts for a comprehensive inspection of the targeted area. The combined force comprised 135 personnel from various agencies, including the Kaeng Krachan D istrict Administration, Border Patrol Police Unit 144, Phraya Suea Task Force, and the Kaeng Krachan National Park patrol unit.
Mr. Mongkol Chaiyaphakdi, head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, led a team of 50 park rangers in the joint operation with related agencies. The mission resulted in the apprehension of 18 illegal immigrants, comprising 10 women and 8 men, along with 10 dependents. Moreover, five individuals faced charges related to drug offenses. Among them, one male was charged with possession of 10 methamphetamine pills, 0.5 grams of crystal meth, and various rounds of ammunition. The other four individuals, three men and one woman, were charged with drug use.
Authorities confiscated three firearms, including a pump-action shotgun, a .22 caliber single-shot rifle, and a homemade rifle, along with an assortment of ammunition and related equipment. The search also unveiled numerous national flags and uniforms linked to ethnic minorities from Myanmar. All cases have been handed over to Kaeng Krachan Police Station for further legal proceedings.