Thai Officials Seize 43 Cattle in Anti-Smuggling Raid Near Cambodian Border

On May 15, 2026, Thai livestock and security authorities intercepted 43 cattle allegedly being smuggled toward the Cambodian border in eastern Thailand. The joint operation, led by Suphot Sangka, chief of the Sa Kaeo Animal Quarantine Station, involved livestock officials, border security forces, and Border Patrol Police officers. During a patrol near Ban Saeng village in Ta Phraya district, officers discovered men herding two groups of beef cattle. Upon inspection, the suspects fled into nearby forests and evaded arrest. Authorities subsequently seized the animals, comprising one group of 13 and another of 30, due to unverified origins and concerns regarding the potential spread of livestock diseases. The cattle were transferred to the Sa Kaeo Animal Quarantine Station for isolation, and biological samples were collected for laboratory testing. Police records were filed at the Thap Thai police station. Officials stated that if no infectious diseases are detected and no legitimate owner claims the livestock, the animals will be auctioned in accordance with government regulations. This incident highlights ongoing efforts to combat cross-border animal smuggling and protect regional agricultural health standards.