Thailand Roundup: Killing of Cambodian government critic Lim Kimya, rescue operation, greenlight for casino and gambling
Poultry export
Thailand's poultry exports reached a record 320,000 metric tons in Q3 2024, marking an 11% increase from the previous year, according to the Rabobank Global Poultry Quarterly 2025 report. Total exports for the first three months of 2024 were 920,000 metric tons, up 6% year-over-year. Processed poultry exports particularly thrived, hitting 505,000 metric tons (14% increase) due to strong demand from Europe and Singapore, while raw/salted chicken trade showed weakness.
Rescue operation
A Hong Kong task force, led by Undersecretary for Security Michael Cheuk, received a positive response from Thailand regarding the rescue of 12 Hong Kong detainees at scam centres near the Thai-Myanmar and Myanmar-Laos borders. Cheuk noted that while the Thai government is committed to the issue, the chaotic conditions in these areas make any rescue operations challenging, and there is no set timeline for their efforts.
Deportation of 48 Uyghurs to China
A human rights group has urged Thailand not to deport 48 Uyghurs to China, where they face persecution. The men have been detained since 2014 after fleeing Xinjiang. Reports of coercion by Thai authorities to prepare for their deportation have heightened concerns for their safety. Justice for All emphasized the need to uphold international human rights standards and the non-refoulement principle, which protects individuals from being returned to places where they risk serious violations.
Greenlight for casino and gambling
Thailand's cabinet has approved a bill to legalize casino gambling, which will be reviewed by the Council of State before debating in parliament. The draft bill permits gambling only in integrated resorts that include various non-gaming facilities. Companies like Melco, Galaxy Entertainment, and MGM Resorts have expressed interest in operating these resorts. The move is seen as beneficial for domestic tourism and the economy, aligning Thailand with other regional markets that offer regulated gambling options, such as Singapore and Vietnam.
Killing of Cambodian government critic Lim Kimya
Thai police have charged Aekaluck Paenoi, a former navy officer and motorcycle taxi driver, with premeditated murder in the killing of Cambodian government critic Lim Kimya in Bangkok on January 7. Lim, 74, an outspoken opponent of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, was shot dead in broad daylight. Aekaluck was arrested in Cambodia and returned to Thailand, where he faces additional charges related to illegal weapon possession. Authorities are searching for a second suspect, identified as Pich Kimsrin, believed to have acted as a spotter.
