In a significant move against illegal operations, Myanmar has repatriated 300 Chinese workers linked to scam centers, intensifying efforts to dismantle these criminal enterprises. The repatriation took place on Friday via the Thailand-Myanmar Friendship Bridge 2 at the border town of Mae Sot, marking a crucial step in an ongoing crackdown.
This operation is part of a larger initiative that is expected to see thousands of foreign nationals sent back to their home countries in the coming weeks. Many of these individuals claim they were trafficked and coerced into participating in elaborate internet scams that target people worldwide.
Myanmar’s junta released a statement confirming the transfer of the Chinese nationals and emphasized its commitment to identifying and prosecuting those involved in these online scam operations. The crackdown has received international attention, with Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun praising the “thunder-style cooperation” among China, Myanmar, and Thailand to address the issue.
Footage from Thai media showed the repatriated individuals disembarking from double-decker coaches and boarding a Southern China Airlines flight, reminiscent of scenes captured just a day earlier when the first group of 50 Chinese nationals was flown out.
A series of additional flights are scheduled, with more repatriations expected to continue through Saturday. However, the Chinese government has classified these individuals as “suspects,” despite many claiming they were deceived and held against their will.
As part of the repatriation process, Chinese police officers accompanied the returnees, who were seen in handcuffs and brown jumpsuits upon arrival in China. Initially, they boarded the flights uncuffed and in casual attire, without any personal belongings.
In a bid to prevent Thailand from being misused as a transit hub for criminal activities, the Thai government has announced plans to collect biometric data from the repatriated individuals. Additionally, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinwatra has engaged in discussions with her Laotian counterpart to strengthen collaborative efforts against scam centers operating along their shared border.
This coordinated response underscores the growing regional commitment to combat cross-border online fraud and protect the rights and well-being of citizens affected by these illicit activities.
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