A crackdown on online scam centers has left over 7,000 people stranded in a Myanmar border town, awaiting repatriation.
The mass operation, coordinated by Thailand, Myanmar, and China, is putting a strain on Thailand’s resources and delaying the process, reports AP.
The crackdown follows Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent visit to Beijing, where she assured Chinese leader Xi Jinping that Thailand would act against scam networks exploiting people worldwide through fraudulent investment schemes, romance scams, and illegal gambling.
Many victims were lured under false pretenses and forced into scam operations, often in conditions resembling slavery.
Thai, Myanmar, and Chinese officials plan to meet next week to discuss logistical challenges, as concerns grow over a potential humanitarian crisis. The goal is to set clear repatriation guidelines, Thai Defense Ministry spokesperson Thanathip Sawangsang said.
85 Bangladeshis among 598 immigrants detained in Myanmar
In an effort to dismantle the scam centers, Thailand has also cut off electricity, internet, and gas to several Myanmar border areas, citing national security.
Amy Miller, Southeast Asia director of aid group Act of Mercy International, described the scale of the release as unprecedented. She acknowledged Thai authorities' efforts but noted that managing the situation requires international cooperation. “Housing, feeding, and processing such a large number is overwhelming for any government,” she said, urging home countries to take responsibility.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Tuesday acknowledged concerns over potential security risks if repatriation is delayed. Verification of identities remains a key challenge, a diplomatic source said.
Over half of those stranded are Chinese nationals. Last week, China repatriated more than 600 people via 16 chartered flights. Earlier this month, around 260 individuals from 20 countries, including Ethiopia, Brazil, and the Philippines, crossed into Thailand for processing. Over 100 remain in Thai custody.
Mae Sot, a key transit point for trafficking victims, is now at the center of repatriation efforts. Checkpoints along the route warn travelers in Thai, English, and Chinese about trafficking risks, while security forces conduct vehicle checks and verify identifications.