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Thailand Tightens Airport Security Amid Cambodia Border Tensions

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Thailand has stepped up airport security measures for visa-free foreign nationals, particularly Cambodian citizens and individuals suspected of mercenary activity, as border tensions with Cambodia continue to escalate.

The Immigration Bureau announced the enhanced screening measures on 15 December confirming their immediate implementation at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports. Authorities said the measures aim to identify individuals suspected of espionage, illegal border crossings, or other activities that could threaten national security.

Security concerns have intensified following renewed clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces, which erupted in early December. Officials said the current situation requires closer monitoring of cross-border movements and foreign arrivals during the period of heightened tension.

Focus on High-Risk Groups

Thai authorities are concentrating enforcement efforts on two main groups: suspected mercenary personnel from Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Cambodian nationals traveling to Thailand during the ongoing border standoff. Officials said travel patterns among these groups appear inconsistent with normal tourism, given the recent military confrontations.

Between early December and 13 December, immigration officers denied entry to 185 individuals under the tightened screening criteria.

The Immigration Bureau said it is working closely with intelligence agencies to verify information related to possible foreign mercenary movements. Officials stressed that the measures seek to strengthen security while avoiding unnecessary disruption to legitimate tourism and travel.

Foreign nationals with genuine business purposes must now apply for appropriate visas through Thai embassies or consulates before traveling.

Airport Operations Continue

Authorities acknowledged that the enhanced screening could increase waiting times at Suvarnabhumi Airport during peak hours. However, the Immigration Bureau said it has deployed full staffing to manage passenger flows, with processing times expected to remain within 45 minutes.

The new measures do not apply to Thai nationals.

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