TAK, Thailand – Thailand, China, and Myanmar have successfully collaborated to repatriate 200 Chinese nationals who were victims of call center scams. In response, China has adjusted its plan and will dispatch aircraft to repatriate an additional 400 individuals over the next two days. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has proposed establishing a frontline coordination center to ensure a clear operational framework backed by legal authority. He emphasized that Thailand will not establish a refugee center for the remaining victims but will instead facilitate their immediate repatriation.
Following a high-level discussion at Mae Sot Airport in Tak province, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham, Chinese Assistant Minister of Public Security Liu Zhongyi, and Myanmar Deputy Minister of Home Affairs General Aung Zaw Zaw reviewed the progress of the operation. The three officials shook hands, signifying the successful cooperation among the three nations. Phumtham was designated as the sole spokesperson for the press briefing, as the other officials had prior engagements.
Phumtham stated that the trilateral collaboration had been meticulously planned for months, with continuous ministerial-level discussions. He clarified that Liu Zhongyi’s presence in Thailand was not an assertion of Chinese authority but rather part of a coordinated effort. Liu Zhongyi expressed regret over any misunderstandings and reaffirmed China’s commitment to resolving the issue swiftly while respecting Thai sovereignty and local laws.
This initiative marks a tangible success in trilateral cooperation. Within the next week or so, a high-level trilateral ministerial discussion is expected. Myanmar’s Deputy Minister Aung Zaw Zaw has already departed but is prepared to return when necessary. Liu Zhongyi, currently tied up with other duties, has authorized Thailand to oversee the remaining processes. The Thai Defense Ministry has coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure smooth operations.
Phumtham confirmed that this was the final group of scam victims Thailand would receive, as per prior agreements. Moving forward, any differences in opinion will be addressed through trilateral discussions. He assured that all repatriation procedures were conducted lawfully, with biometric verification in place to prevent unauthorized entry into Thailand. He dismissed concerns about Uyghur detainees being among those repatriated, citing human rights considerations and the need to protect individuals’ identities.
Thailand has also ruled out establishing a foreign office for such operations, preferring to manage entry and exit procedures through trilateral cooperation. Thai officials have participated in inspections at the Myanmar border, ensuring all processes adhere to immigration laws and human rights standards.
Phumtham further revealed that Thailand is reviving a 2005 legal framework to establish a coordination center, which will oversee operations under a single command led by the Third Army Region Commander. This center will have a dedicated spokesperson to provide ongoing updates, with involvement from the military, police, and foreign affairs ministry.
All repatriated Chinese nationals have undergone thorough screening and are permanently banned from re-entering Thailand under Section 119 of Thai law. However, Phumtham refrained from specifying whether they were classified as victims or criminals. He reassured that China has pledged to respect Thailand’s sovereignty and local laws, with no foreseeable disputes between the three nations. Myanmar has also committed to providing Thailand with a list of individuals for repatriation, allowing Thai authorities to verify their status before granting entry. Those awaiting repatriation will remain in Myanmar until further arrangements are made, particularly for nationals of other countries.
The operation has garnered international recognition, with foreign governments and global organizations commending Thailand’s role in facilitating repatriations.
When asked about the timeline for these measures, Phumtham stated that over 3,000 names have been compiled for potential repatriation, and the process will continue as efficiently as possible. He also addressed concerns about border security, affirming that measures are in place to prevent illicit cross-border trade and human trafficking.
Regarding stranded African nationals, Phumtham reiterated that Thailand will facilitate their return but will not admit them into the country. Instead, Thailand will assist with logistical arrangements until their respective embassies coordinate their repatriation.
Phumtham concluded by stating that the frontline coordination center will be established in the coming days under an executive order from the Prime Minister, bypassing the need for Cabinet approval. This measure aims to provide a clear legal framework for officials and ensure the government’s response remains structured and effective.
