Thai Representative Leads Delegation to 18th AMMTC Meeting on Transnational Crime
Thai Representative, Police Major General Tawee Sodsong, the Minister of Justice, headed the Thai delegation to the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) in Vientiane, Laos. The meeting took place on Wednesday, August 28, 2567 B.E. from 08:00 to 19:00 local time. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, the Secretary of ASEAN, presided over the opening of the meeting, with General Vilay Lakhamphong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Security of Lao PDR, delivering the welcoming remarks.
The participants in the meeting included top officials such as Police General Niphat Thonglek, Deputy Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, Police Lieutenant General Prajuab Wongsuk, Deputy Commander of the National Police, Police Major General Yutthanat Praedam, Deputy Director-General of the Special Investigation Department, representing the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, Mr. Apichit Ch. Rotsaprat, Deputy Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, Mr. Asniya Sangka-nate, Director of the Juvenile Rehabilitation Center, and other officials from ASEAN member states, Timor-Leste, and relevant countries.
During the meeting, Minister Tawee emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crime, particularly in apprehending and extraditing fugitive criminals. He praised Indonesia for its assistance in capturing significant Thai fugitives. The complexity of the current situation regarding drug trafficking was discussed, highlighting the crucial role of forensic science in legal proceedings and uncovering the truth. The creation of financial intelligence databases to disrupt drug trafficking networks was also emphasized, along with the importance of cooperation in addressing drug addiction problems, cybercrime, online fraud, and human trafficking.
Minister Tawee stressed the significance of international collaboration in solving these issues, stating that it was essential for achieving successful outcomes. Following his address, discussions were held with Indonesia on preventing, investigating, and apprehending suspects in major cases, such as drug-related offenses and illegal labor trafficking. Both parties expressed willingness to enhance cooperation and establish working groups to exchange information and assist in apprehending fugitives who cross borders.
The Thai Minister designated the Narcotics Control Board as the central coordinating agency for collaboration, tracking, apprehending, and sharing relevant information on drug-related issues among three agencies: the Royal Thai Police, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, and the Special Investigation Department. In the concluding discussions, Minister Tawee and Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary of ASEAN, deliberated on the situation in the southern border provinces, wildlife and plant trafficking, promoting education to reduce crime, enhancing knowledge among children and youth, and developing inter-country cooperation within ASEAN to elevate joint efforts.
Efforts to Combat Transnational Crime
Minister Tawee reiterated Thailand’s commitment to combating transnational crime, emphasizing the need for collaboration among ASEAN member states to effectively address these challenges. He highlighted the success of joint operations with Indonesia in apprehending high-profile criminals and emphasized the importance of utilizing advanced forensic techniques in criminal investigations. The Minister also emphasized the significance of financial intelligence databases in disrupting illicit drug networks and the need for international cooperation to combat drug addiction, cybercrime, online fraud, and human trafficking.
Enhancing International Cooperation
The discussions during the AMMTC meeting focused on enhancing international cooperation to tackle transnational crime effectively. Minister Tawee emphasized the importance of sharing intelligence, coordinating efforts, and collaborating on cross-border investigations to apprehend fugitives and dismantle criminal networks. The establishment of joint task forces and information-sharing mechanisms was proposed to facilitate the swift exchange of information and enhance coordination among law enforcement agencies in the region.
Addressing Emerging Challenges
Minister Tawee highlighted the emerging challenges posed by cybercrime, online fraud, and human trafficking, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and cross-border cooperation to address these issues effectively. He stressed the importance of leveraging technology and analytical tools to combat these crimes and protect vulnerable populations. The Minister also underscored the significance of capacity-building initiatives, training programs, and strategic partnerships to enhance the region’s ability to respond to evolving criminal threats.
In conclusion, Minister Tawee reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to working closely with ASEAN member states and other relevant countries to combat transnational crime effectively. He emphasized the importance of sustained cooperation, information sharing, and joint operations to address the complex challenges posed by cross-border criminal activities. The discussions during the 18th AMMTC meeting laid the foundation for enhanced collaboration and coordination in the fight against transnational crime, underscoring the importance of collective action to ensure regional security and stability.
