DSI and Cambodian Police Advance Bilateral Talks on Human Trafficking SOPs Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation Mechanisms

             On 6 June 2025, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) of Thailand and the Cambodian National Police (CNP) convened a bilateral meeting on international cooperation  in human trafficking investigations, held in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo.

              On behalf of Pol. Lt. Col. YutthanaPraedam, Director-General of DSI, Pol. Lt. Col. Surawut Rangsai, Deputy Director-General of DSI, led the Thai delegation. The Cambodian delegation was headed by Pol. Lt. Gen. Chiv Phally, Deputy Commander General of the CNP. Attendees included Pol. Maj. Siriwich Kasemsap, Director of the Bureau of Human Trafficking Crime, Pol. Maj. Gen. Sok Sambo, Director of the Department of Anti-Human Trafficking and Juvenile Protection of Cambodia, representatives from the ASEAN–Australia Counter Trafficking (ASEAN–ACT) Programme, and officials      from both countries.

               The main objective of the meeting was to enhance practical cooperation in human trafficking   and forced labour investigations, with particular focus on joint discussions regarding the draft Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). These SOPs, jointly developed by DSI and CNP, aim to upgrade cross-border cooperation mechanisms in response to the evolving challenges of transnational crime in the digital age.

              Pol. Lt. Col. Surawut Rangsai stated, “These SOPs not only provide a clear framework for joint operations but also stand as a symbol of the friendship, mutual trust, and shared commitment between Thailand and Cambodia to effectively and sustainably combat human trafficking.” Pol. Lt. Gen. Chiv Phally further emphasised, “It is not enough to simply share information, we must work together in depth           to build systems capable of protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable, both within our countries and across the region.”

         The meeting was strongly supported by ASEAN–ACT. Ms. Darlene Pajarito, Justice Systems Director, commended the progress made, stating, “It is truly encouraging to witness the close collaboration between Thailand and Cambodia, and the strong commitment on both sides to sustainably counter human trafficking across ASEAN.”

            The parties agreed to expedite domestic procedures in order to secure formal endorsement of the SOPs as soon as possible. The official signing ceremony is planned to take place at the next bilateral meeting, paving the way for their practical implementation.