Chonburi Immigration officers launched a swift raid on a house in Soi Sukhumvit Pattaya 57 after receiving reports of unusually large gatherings of Indian nationals believed to be linked to illegal labor networks.
During the operation, authorities found 17 Indian nationals inside the residence. Fifteen were discovered to have overstayed their visas, while two others still possessed valid tourist visas but were detained for further questioning over their possible connection to unlawful employment activities.
One of the migrants, speaking through an interpreter, told officers that an Indian broker had brought them to Pattaya under the promise of job opportunities. Upon arrival, they were taken to the rented house, where their visas were subsequently voided, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.
Police Colonel Naphasaphong Kositsuriyamanee, Superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, is leading an in-depth investigation. Authorities suspect the property served as a safe house used to shelter migrants before they were dispersed to work illegally across the Pattaya area.
Chonburi Immigration confirmed that deportation procedures for the 15 overstayers are already underway, while investigators continue to pursue leads to dismantle the broader network behind the operation.
Officials vowed to intensify efforts to curb illegal migration and labor trafficking in the province.
