On December 4, 2024, at Parliament, Rangsiman Rome, Deputy Leader of the People’s Party and Chair of the State Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and Reform Committee, addressed the escalating border crisis involving the Wa Red Group near the Thai-Myanmar border. He expressed concerns over the spillover effects of Myanmar’s military conflict, highlighting the humanitarian crisis that could force over 2 million displaced individuals to seek refuge in Thailand, despite the country's capacity to host only 100,000 refugees. Rangsiman emphasized that denying asylum to those fleeing violence could harm Thailand's international reputation, particularly as a UN Human Rights Council member.
He also linked the Wa Red Group to cross-border drug trafficking, noting their significant role in producing illicit drugs. These activities, including incursions into Thai territory, could exacerbate Thailand's ongoing drug epidemic. Rangsiman urged stronger border management and comprehensive anti-drug measures, pointing to the use of Thai-sourced electricity in Wa-dominated areas as a potential enabler for large-scale drug production.
Rangsiman plans to raise these issues in Parliament on December 13 and will question Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on December 12 about suspected links between Thai businesses and the Wa Group, including financial irregularities and shell companies allegedly tied to the organization.