Suvarnabhumi: Airport Immigration authorities are intensifying their scrutiny of foreigners entering and exiting the country, as evidenced by the recent arrest of two individuals with counterfeit passports. According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Chengron Rimphidi, Commander of Immigration Bureau Division 2, in line with the directive from Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas Boonlak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, has mandated increased vigilance at airport checkpoints to identify individuals who may pose a security threat.
On the morning of March 8, 2015, immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport detained two foreigners, MR. EL ASYLY ISMAIL, aged 30, and MR. EL WANNASSE ABDELMALEK, aged 24, as they attempted to check in with Oman Airlines. Both individuals presented Spanish passports that appeared suspicious and bore an entry stamp from Don Mueang Airport Immigration Checkpoint. Upon further examination by the Immigration Division 2 Investigation Division, it was discovered that the passports lacked entry information in the biometric system and lacked necessary security watermarks. A subsequent search revealed Moroccan passports in their possession, indicating that they had entered Thailand through Suvarnabhumi Airport on February 24, 2025, under a Free Visa.
The investigation revealed that both men confessed to acquiring fake Spanish passports from a Moroccan broker, for which they paid 7 million Moroccan dirhams each. Their travel route included stops in Istanbul, Turkey, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, before arriving in Thailand. Their intention was to remain briefly in Thailand before traveling to Spain for work.
The preference for passing through Thailand was attributed to the reputation of Thai immigration's stringent screening process, which is trusted by European countries. Following their arrest, both individuals were handed over to the investigation officer at Suvarnabhumi Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Pol. Col. Chengron emphasized that Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas Boonnalak has instructed all checkpoints to enhance their screening of foreigners, particularly those exploiting the Free Visa policy for multiple entries, contrary to its intended use for tourism and short-term events. There is also a heightened focus on individuals associated with criminal activities, such as those linked to call center operations or frequent travelers to casino destinations without clear plans. This rigorous screening process is part of an ongoing effort to prevent security risks, resulting in the denial of entry to approximately 400-500 individuals monthly. Simultaneously, the airport immigration office remains committed to facilitating the entry of quality tourists and investors, ensuring confidence in travel to and from Thailand.