PUBLISHED: 16 Feb 2025 at 16:36
TAK: In a significant move, Chinese Assistant Public Security Minister Liu Zhongyi arrived in Mae Sot district on Sunday to facilitate the repatriation of numerous Chinese victims affected by call scam gangs.
Local authorities were only informed of Liu’s visit on the morning of his arrival, keeping the details of his schedule in Mae Sot confidential. It is reported that he will stay in the district until at least Tuesday.
Liu’s journey began in Myanmar before he traveled to Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok and subsequently boarded a Nok Air flight to Mae Sot with a delegation of 26 officials.
This visit marks Liu’s second trip to the Mae Sot area, following discussions with officials in Myanmar regarding the crackdown on scam operations and human trafficking in the region.
Recently, approximately 260 individuals who fell victim to call scam gangs were released and crossed into Tak. According to sources, around 600 Chinese victims are expected to be repatriated during Liu’s current visit.
On Sunday afternoon, Liu crossed into Myanmar at Mae Sot, planning to return to the Thai side later that evening to stay at a local hotel. Rescued victims may board a flight in Mae Sot shortly for their return to China.
The backdrop of these actions includes rising concerns following the disappearance of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was reportedly lured into a scam operation in Myawaddy. Authorities continue to investigate various Chinese-centric scam networks operating in neighboring regions.
