India successfully repatriated 270 of its nationals, including 26 women, from Mae Sot city in Thailand through two special Indian Air Force (IAF) flights, the Indian Embassy in Bangkok confirmed on Thursday. The operation was coordinated closely with the Royal Thai Government and Indian diplomatic missions in Thailand and Myanmar.
The repatriated individuals had recently crossed into Thailand from the Myawaddy region of Myanmar, where they were allegedly employed in cyber scam operations. Thai authorities detained them for violating immigration laws after entering the country illegally.
“The Embassy of India in Bangkok, along with the Consulate in Chiang Mai and relevant Thai authorities, facilitated the safe return of these citizens to India,” the Embassy said in a statement.
The Indian Embassy further cautioned citizens against accepting overseas job offers without verifying the credentials of employers or recruiting agencies. “Visa-free entry to Thailand for Indian passport holders is intended strictly for tourism and short business purposes. It should not be misused for employment,” the statement added.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that it has been actively engaging with Thai authorities to ensure the early repatriation of Indian nationals detained after crossing from Myanmar. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We are aware of Indian nationals who have been detained by Thai authorities. They crossed into Thailand from Myanmar over the past few days. Our Mission in Thailand is working closely with Thai authorities to verify their nationality and repatriate them, following necessary legal formalities.”
The Embassy also emphasized that efforts are ongoing to repatriate other Indian nationals who remain in Myanmar and are allegedly involved in scamming operations. Indian authorities are coordinating with both host governments to secure their return while ensuring compliance with local legal procedures.
This repatriation effort highlights India’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and underscores the importance of lawful travel and employment practices in foreign countries. Officials continue to urge Indians considering overseas employment to conduct thorough checks and avoid illegal crossings, particularly in regions with heightened security and regulatory oversight.
