Over 200 foreign nationals rescued from illegal scam operations in eastern Myanmar remain stranded near the Thai-Myanmar border, weeks after they were freed by the Karen National Army (KNA), a local rebel group. These individuals, including citizens from Vietnam, China, the Philippines, and Indonesia, were held in scam compounds in the conflict-ridden Myawaddy region.
The rescued victims are currently housed in makeshift shelters under the supervision of the KNA. Rebel leaders confirmed that they are providing humanitarian assistance, including food, medical aid, and special care for pregnant women among the rescued. However, logistical and diplomatic delays have prevented the timely repatriation of the victims to their home countries.
The Thai government has been taking tough action to curb cross-border scam networks by cutting electricity, internet, and fuel supplies to Myanmar border areas since February. These measures have weakened the infrastructure supporting the scam centers but have not yet dismantled the networks completely. Many of these scam operations are controlled by Chinese-speaking criminal syndicates and continue to function using alternative power sources like generators.
Authorities estimate that as many as 100,000 individuals may still be held in scam centers across the region. These victims are often lured by fake job offers and then forced to work in illegal online scams. Reports from escapees and human rights organizations detail abuse, torture, and deplorable living conditions within the compounds.
This crisis came into sharper focus earlier this year when Chinese actor Wang Xing was kidnapped in Thailand and trafficked to a Myanmar scam hub. His rescue prompted renewed international efforts to dismantle the networks and rescue victims.
Since the beginning of the year, multinational operations led by Thailand, China, and local armed groups like the KNA and DKBA (Democratic Karen Benevolent Army) have resulted in the rescue of over 7,200 people, most of them Chinese nationals. Despite these efforts, many remain in limbo, facing a prolonged wait for safe return.
Several foreign embassies have yet to finalize arrangements for repatriation. Local authorities say that some victims, especially from Vietnam, are unable to return due to financial constraints or slow diplomatic processes. The delay has raised concerns about the well-being of those still stuck in temporary shelters.
Thailand's Prime Minister has confirmed that the government will continue its strategy of cutting utility services to scam hubs and cooperating with regional partners to combat transnational crime. However, humanitarian organizations and rights groups are calling for increased international support to ensure immediate assistance and safe repatriation for all rescued individuals.
As the situation remains tense and unresolved, urgent coordinated action is needed to provide relief to those stranded and prevent the resurgence of scam syndicates that prey on vulnerable job seekers.