Myanmar refugees face extortion at Thai border after fleeing armed clashes
174
Khit/Pearl (NP News) - May 2
According to a source close to the refugees, Myanmar's armed conflict refugees who fled to Thailand from Myawady are being subjected to unjust extortion demands by some lower-ranking Thai authorities.
On 19 April, KNLA and PDF forces carried out drone attacks against the Tatmadaw near Bridge No. 2 in Myawady Township, Kayin State.
Due to the ongoing hostilities, intense armed confrontations ensued between the Tatmadaw and the combined KNU and PDF terrorist group until the evening of 20 April. Additionally, Tatmadaw’s Air Forces also assisted with air defense.
As a result of the intense clashes, thousands of residents from Myawady have been forced to flee to the Thai side of the border. Consequently, these Myanmar refugees are now facing unjust extortion demands from some lower-ranking Thai authorities.
A source familiar with the situation reported to NP News that some Thai authorities extort money from refugees crossing the border from Myawady. The source claims authorities target those carrying gold or jewelry, demanding higher sums (20,000 to 40,000 baht) for unworn jewelry that is packaged and a minimum of 20,000 baht has to be paid by force. The source also said that refugees fluent in Thai may be able to negotiate the extortion down to 2,000-5,000 baht.
As Myawady residents are displaced to Thailand, they are required to seek refuge using temporary pass documents valid for seven days. If these temporary passes expire for any reason, individuals must pay a fine of 100 baht and an additional 500 baht per car per day.
"Individuals facing delays in renewing temporary pass documents due to various reasons during armed clashes were met with less understanding from Thai authorities. Instead, these officials demanded fines of 100 baht per day or 500 baht for a car without room for negotiation. Moreover, they threatened Myanmar refugees with arrest for non-payment, despite the absence of clear protocols. Following arrests, these authorities extorted money from refugees before releasing them to Myanmar authorities. Even the expiration of a passport's red book incurred a 500 baht fine in Thailand. This manipulation by lower-ranking Thai border officers is deeply concerning," the source elaborated.
While Thailand has announced it will accept and assist refugees fleeing the war, reports have emerged of extortion by some Thai authorities targeting these refugees.
With clashes currently ceased in Myawady, some refugees have begun returning to the township, Thai authorities are reportedly encouraging refugees who fled the clashes to return home.