Thailand’s Minister Confirms Sanctions Lift Tied to Myanmar’s Removal of Scam Gangs
PUBLISHED: 12 Feb 2025 at 14:39
The Thai government is bracing for an influx of individuals freed from scam gangs operating in Myanmar, following the recent energy supply cuts to the region, as stated by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Officials are aware of reports indicating that these gangs are beginning to release their captives and send them to Thailand, although the country is not prepared to receive all of them.
“If their home countries refuse to accept them, we cannot take them in,” Mr. Phumtham remarked, emphasizing that Thailand would not establish refugee camps for these individuals.
As a precaution, the Thai government has deployed security forces along the border to manage any potential influx of people released from the scam centers.
Furthermore, it was reported that the Myanmar government is set to send 53 foreign nationals who were victimized by scammers to Phop Phra district in Tak province, as they lack the means to care for them. These individuals include citizens from Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Philippines.
Thai officials will conduct interviews to assess the victims’ experiences and any potential trafficking involvement. If they are found to be non-involved with the scams, repatriation to their home countries is expected to take between three weeks to a month.
Mr. Phumtham also highlighted that Thailand has communicated with Myanmar regarding the potential easing of sanctions on internet services, fuel, and electricity, contingent upon Myanmar eliminating scam operations.
“We are progressing positively. Any threats to limit our imports do not concern us,” Mr. Phumtham concluded.
