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Thailand's Foreign Minister has responded to a Chinese embassy warning about fake job offers that lure Chinese nationals into Thailand and into kidnapping situations. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, who is also Deputy PM, said on Oct 21 that Thailand takes tourist safety seriously and will investigate incidents. He also asked China to keep its warnings proportionate to the real risk.
What happened
The Chinese embassy in Thailand warned its nationals about fake job offers. According to the warning, these offers lure Chinese people into Thailand and into kidnapping situations.
Sihasak responded on Oct 21 while he was in Rome, Italy. He asked China not to cause panic. In his view, warnings should match the real level of risk, because unnecessary panic could hurt both countries.
Thailand's response
Sihasak said Thailand takes tourist safety seriously and that visitors from many countries feel safe there. The government will investigate any incident that threatens visitors, deal with the problems it finds and act against those responsible.
He said Thailand can't ignore threats to personal safety or breaches of the law, especially when the victims are foreigners.
Who is behind the schemes
Sihasak said the criminal operations are not run only by Thai nationals. Investigators need to find out who is being lured into these schemes.
He was asked about reports that Chinese nationals take part in the kidnapping operations. He said he didn't want to single out any nationality, but he acknowledged that the available information points to such involvement.
Working with China
Sihasak said preventing more incidents comes first, and that the two countries should share information and work together.
To restore tourist confidence, he suggested talks between Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Chinese embassy. The Foreign Ministry is ready to help. He added that the problem should be tackled at its source, not only its consequences.
What it means for travellers
Thailand says the risk is not widespread, but it admits real incidents exist. The scheme targets people who answer fake job offers, mainly Chinese nationals. It is not described as random kidnapping of ordinary tourists.
Sihasak said travellers of any nationality should stay cautious, since criminal groups use various ways to deceive victims. The practical advice is to be wary of unsolicited job or work offers that involve travelling to Thailand.
Chinese visitor numbers may be affected. The Thaiger already carries a related story about Thailand losing appeal among Chinese tourists.
Information sourced from The Thaiger.