September 30, 2024
All male Myanmar nationals deported from Thailand due to illegal residency will be forced to serve in military operations, as confirmed by a source from the Tanintharyi military recruitment unit. It is reported that the military in Naypyidaw is directly managing the matter of recruiting returnees from Myanmar.
Myanmar nationals arrested for illegal residency in Thailand face the possibility of additional prison sentences for crossing borders unlawfully upon their return. Consequently, rather than being imprisoned, they are now coerced into military service. The Thai government has been transferring Myanmar nationals arrested through illegal crossings back to the military junta, which is currently recruiting all male returnees for military service. Those who illegally entered Thailand are at risk of additional prison sentences when they return to Myanmar; thus, to avoid punishment, they are compelled to sign documents agreeing to serve in the military.
A source from the Tanintharyi military recruitment unit stated, “Those who return to Myanmar will be scrutinized and taken into custody for illegal border crossings. However, if they agree to serve in the military, they will not face punishment. They are aware that failing to serve would result in further penalties, leading some to sign up willingly while others arrive at military training camps without signing. Women are generally released, but men are mandated to serve. All who may be re-deported must serve in the military.”
The personal details and backgrounds of those returned by the Thai government are reportedly being scrutinized by military personnel in Tanintharyi, including police and intelligence officers, to ensure there are no connections to resistance groups within Thailand before they are compelled to serve in the military. This action is believed to be carried out under direct orders from Naypyidaw.
Furthermore, the military recruitment unit is forming social relations teams to communicate with the families of those conscripted, notifying them that the returnees from Thailand are serving in military operations.
