Ice Cream Raid in Udon Thani: Cambodian Vendors Arrested, Hidden Freezer House Uncovered
UDON THANI – What appeared to be a simple ice cream business turned into a high-profile immigration bust after Thai authorities raided a secret storage facility in Udon Thani on July 31. Eight Cambodian nationals were arrested for illegally selling ice cream without proper permits, and a large-scale hidden freezer house was exposed in the process.
The dramatic raid occurred at 1:40 p.m. in the Don Udom community. Acting on tips from residents and local leaders, Udon Thani District Chief Chawit Pongkhan launched an immediate investigation. Local official Chatcha Thanataworachot led the operation, supported by police, military, and labor officials.
At the scene, authorities found five Cambodian men and three women operating a concealed ice cream distribution hub. Hidden behind concrete walls and green netting, the property housed 50 industrial ice cream freezers filled with various frozen treats. In addition, seven motorcycles fitted with sidecars and ten vending pushcarts were parked on site, suggesting the operation was intended to supply a network of street vendors.
Upon inspecting their documents, police found that seven of the Cambodians had passports, but all had overstayed their visas. One individual lacked any form of identification. The group admitted to entering Thailand nearly a decade ago and initially worked in the construction sector in Bangkok and Nonthaburi. They later moved to Roi Et province but were unable to find stable work.
A Thai intermediary reportedly introduced them to the idea of selling ice cream in Udon Thani. On July 28, they paid 3,000 baht to be transported to the city, hoping to earn a daily wage of 300 baht. However, fearful of being caught by authorities, they hesitated to begin sales.
In their statements, the arrested vendors pleaded for compassion. “We just wanted to stay in Thailand to earn money,” one said. “If we return to Cambodia, nothing is waiting for us—only farming.” Despite rising border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, the migrants avoided political commentary, stating simply: “We want peace so nobody suffers.”
Local official Chatcha Thanataworachot explained the raid followed repeated complaints from residents who noticed an influx of foreign vendors selling ice cream from motorcycles, a violation of Thai labor laws. Under the Royal Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers’ Employment (2017), foreign nationals are prohibited from engaging in street vending without proper authorization.
All eight suspects were detained at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, and their vehicles and vending equipment were seized. Drug tests administered to the group returned negative results. Authorities confirmed that the individuals will undergo legal proceedings and be deported upon conclusion of the case.
“This operation isn’t about targeting individuals for trying to survive,” said a police spokesperson. “But laws exist for a reason, and unregulated foreign vending can create health, safety, and labor concerns.”
The case highlights the ongoing challenges facing undocumented migrant workers in Thailand. While many seek better opportunities across the border, the lack of legal pathways and the threat of arrest continue to put them at risk.
Meanwhile, local officials are increasing surveillance of migrant worker activity, particularly in informal sectors like street vending and food sales, to ensure compliance with labor laws and public safety standards.
As the investigation continues, authorities are also looking into the Thai contacts who helped arrange the ice cream sales operation, suggesting there may be a broader network facilitating illegal migrant labor in the area.
