Thai Authorities Receive Names of Individuals Rescued from Scam Centers in Myanmar
PUBLISHED : 26 Feb 2025 at 19:17
More than 7,000 foreign nationals have been rescued from international scam operations located in Shwe Kokko and KK Park in Myawaddy, Myanmar, and are currently awaiting repatriation. The Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) has compiled a list of 7,141 individuals from 28 countries, which has been forwarded to Thailand’s Ratchamanu Task Force for further processing. This group includes 6,716 men and 425 women.
The majority of victims are from China, with 4,860 individuals (4,764 men and 96 women), followed by Vietnam (511 men and 61 women), India (498 men and 28 women), and others from Ethiopia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Pakistan, Kenya, and Taiwan.
The BGF has been linked to various criminal operations and is currently working with the Myanmar junta, attempting to improve its standing with the international community. Under the leadership of Saw Chit Thu, the BGF has taken charge of the rescue and has intensified efforts against human trafficking following disruptions in key operations on February 16.
These locations were allegedly used by Chinese-managed call centers that have exploited victims from several countries for years. Recent high-profile scams, including the abduction of a Chinese actor, sparked significant media attention and prompted action from Thai authorities.
All rescued individuals have been categorized by nationality, and the BGF is urging the Thai government and other nations to expedite their return. As of now, the individuals remain in Myanmar, awaiting assistance from their embassies to facilitate their return. However, Thai officials have expressed hesitance to allow crossing into Thailand until the respective countries are prepared to receive them.
