Thailand Prepares for Influx of Foreign Scam Victims: Deputy PM Confirms Quick Repatriation Plans
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, announced on Wednesday that the government is ready to handle an influx of foreign victims recently released from call-centre scam operations in Myanmar. The announcement comes as the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) sent 261 individuals for repatriation to Thailand after they were rescued from illicit entertainment complexes.
The repatriated victims arrived at Phop Phra district in Tak around 4:30 PM for processing and preliminary questioning. Thai authorities confirmed that the government is coordinating with embassies to facilitate the safe return of these individuals to their home countries. Past investigations have shown a mix of trafficking victims and those who took jobs willingly.
Earlier reports indicated that only 53 foreigners would be sent back, comprising individuals from Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Philippines. However, the Defence Ministry later updated the figure to 261. The authorities will conduct thorough questioning regarding their experiences and possible trafficking involvement, and will assess their background profiles. Non-scam victims are expected to return home within three weeks to a month, while others may face legal proceedings.
Mr. Phumtham expressed awareness of impending releases by gangs, emphasizing that Thailand cannot accept them all. “If their native countries will not accept them, we will not receive them from Myanmar,” he stated. He also noted that Thailand will not establish refugee camps for these individuals.
Multiple countries have reached out for assistance regarding their citizens, and embassies will be notified to proceed with repatriation as victims arrive in Thailand. The Thai government has increased security forces along the border in preparation for potential surges of those released from scam operations.
Mr. Phumtham highlighted the government’s approach towards Myanmar, suggesting that sanctions on internet services, fuel, and electricity could be eased if Myanmar shows progress in dismantling scam centres. Recent protests by Myanmar nationals for a boycott of Thai goods have emerged in response to the cutoff of essential services in regions where criminal networks operate.
Current estimates suggest that over 17,000 call-centre scam victims still remain in Myanmar, with around 10,000 being Chinese nationals and the rest from various countries.
