With the number of Covid-19 infections among migrant workers in Samut Sakhon not falling, the prime minister has instructed officials to ensure that companies no longer hire illegal workers. Prayut Chan-o-cha spoke to Deputy Governor Surasak Pholyangsong yesterday via video conference from the Government House.

The central province of Samut Sakhon is believed to be the epicenter of the second wave of Covid-19 in Thailand after an outbreak at a fish market last month. The resurgence has been linked to migrant workers being illegally smuggled into the kingdom, circumventing health checks and the mandatory quarantine requirement. Samut Sakhon’s governor Veerasak Vijitsaengsri has tested positive for the virus and is staying in the hospital.

According to a report by the Bangkok Post, the prime minister has recognized the work since then by provincial officials, which includes active tracing and auditing, health screening, closing “high-risk sites” and preparing field hospitals for quarantine and treatment. In yesterday’s call, he directed Surasak to tighten travel restrictions in the province and take measures to prevent illegal migrants from entering the country.

Although Surasak announced the reopening of the seafood market on Jan. 27, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was cautious, saying officials must guarantee the facility is completely Covid-free. He added that the restrictions could be relaxed once the situation improved in the 28 “strictly controlled” areas.

The government’s Covid-19 Task Force continues to monitor the situation in neighboring countries and notes with concern the escalating cases in countries like Malaysia. The Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration urges all Thai citizens living near border areas to be vigilant and look for illegal border crossings. All migrant workers must undergo Covid-19 tests and provide details of their travel history.

In other news, the President of the Association of Entertainment Professionals is calling for government support on behalf of entertainment venues and business operators affected by Covid-19 restrictions and closure orders. Khathawut Thongthai has asked Natthaphol Nakpanich, Secretary General of the National Security Council, to provide debt relief and low-interest loans. He is also asking for permission to reopen venues in provinces that have passed 28 days without a local incident and for concerts to be allowed in those provinces.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post

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