A crackdown on online scam centers has led to over 7,000 individuals from around the world being held in a Myanmar border town awaiting repatriation, putting strain on Thailand’s resources. These individuals were victims of false pretenses and were working in scam centers in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, engaging in financial exploitation schemes. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s visit to Beijing led to the coordinated crackdown with Myanmar and China. Thailand cut off essential supplies to areas hosting scam centers along the border, citing national security. Aid groups are concerned about a possible humanitarian crisis as the number of individuals requiring repatriation is unprecedented.
Officials from Thailand, Myanmar, and China are expected to meet to address logistical challenges in the repatriation process. Identifying individuals and coordinating the return of over 7,000 people poses a significant challenge for the involved governments. Thailand’s deputy prime minister acknowledged the concerns and emphasized the urgency in handling the situation to prevent potential issues.
The majority of the individuals waiting for repatriation are Chinese, with over 600 already sent back to China through chartered flights. Other individuals from a mix of countries, including Ethiopia, Brazil, and the Philippines, are also awaiting repatriation. Many of them were trafficked to Myanmar through Mae Sot, a center for mass repatriation efforts. Checkpoints along the road to Mae Sot warn individuals about the risk of trafficking and aid in verifying identities of those involved in the crackdown.
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