Vientiane:Lao authorities have handed over 39 Thai nationals, including 14 women, to Thai police for further legal proceedings related to allegations of cybercrime and online gambling operations.

According to Lao News Agency, the handover occurred on October 14 at the 1st Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, which connects Vientiane and Nong Khai. This action followed an agreement signed by Lt. Col. Kaenkham Kaenthavong, Chief of Immigration at the Lao international border checkpoint, and Lt. Col. Thiyachaphat Rangsiphramanakun, Deputy Superintendent of the Nong Khai Immigration Office, with officials from both countries present.

The transfer aligns with Lao laws regarding the management of foreigners and agreements between the police authorities of Laos and Thailand. The 39 suspects were apprehended by a specialized task force of the Lao Ministry of Public Security during operations targeting alleged cybercrime and online gambling networks, conducted between July and August 2026.

The raids specifically targeted the ST Vegas Company in Dongphosy Village, Hadxayfong District, and Building 8 of the Om Asia International Complex in the That Luang Marsh Specific Economic Zone.