Thailand begins crackdown on beggars in tourist hotspots

Frequent crackdowns targeting street beggars will be conducted, Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said, as quoted by Nation Thailand.

Foreigners caught during the raids will be deported to their countries while locals will be taken to state-run protection centers and receive vocational training, the South China Morning Post reported.

Begging is considered illegal in Thailand.

Under Thai laws, begging can be punished by up to one-month imprisonment and/or a fine of up to 10,000 baht.

Last year, six Chinese beggars were deported for asking for money in tourist areas in Bangkok.