Thai authorities arrested 70 immigrants, including 30 children, suspected of being Rohingya Muslims who had entered the country illegally from Myanmar, a Thai official confirmed on Saturday. This marks the latest wave of arrivals in Southeast Asia amid ongoing humanitarian and migration challenges.  

The group, discovered on a beach on an island in southern Thailand, claimed they were Muslims from Myanmar attempting to reach Malaysia or Indonesia, according to Somkane Phothisri, commander of the Phang Nga provincial police. Photos taken by officials show women wearing hijabs among the detained group.  

Thailand has long served as a transit point for Rohingya fleeing Myanmar, where they are denied citizenship and face systemic persecution. Many embark on perilous journeys to reach Muslim-majority nations like Malaysia and Indonesia, often traveling in unsafe wooden boats, particularly between October and April when seas are calmer.  

"We cannot yet determine if they are Rohingya or other Myanmar nationals who entered the country illegally," said Phang Nga Governor Supoj Rodrung na Nongkhai, adding that investigations are ongoing.  

The children among the group will be placed under the care of the Department of Social Development and Welfare, authorities said.  

This arrest follows recent incidents, including the arrival of boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya in Indonesia last month. The plight of the Rohingya remains a pressing regional issue, with countries in Southeast Asia grappling with the challenges of migration and humanitarian support.

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