Thailand repatriated 40 illegal Chinese immigrants back to China on Thursday, the Ministry of Public Security said.

The individuals had been smuggled into Thailand, the ministry said in a statement, adding that the repatriation was conducted in accordance with the domestic laws of both countries and international law. The ministry emphasized that the lawful rights of the individuals were fully guaranteed during the repatriation process.

Illegal immigration and human smuggling are internationally recognized crimes, the ministry noted, adding that China's police will strengthen international law enforcement cooperation to combat these offenses.