BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai has provided an update on the repatriation of victims from call center scam networks in Myawaddy, Myanmar. Discussions are ongoing on whether individuals should be transferred through Thailand or sent directly to their home countries. The latest group set for repatriation will first transit through Thailand for screening and verification before some are sent to China under a trilateral agreement.
The Myanmar government has formally requested that Thai authorities limit their role to support and coordination while Myanmar takes full responsibility for managing the situation. Thai officials, including personnel from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, have been sent to Myanmar to verify the status of those affected. China will oversee the repatriation of its citizens from Thailand’s Mae Sot district, with Thailand not covering the associated costs.
Thai officials have stated that coordination between Thailand, Myanmar, and China was established before the arrival of China’s Assistant Minister of Public Security, Liu Zhongyi. The Chinese official has already met with Myanmar’s Minister of Home Affairs, and further discussions are planned with Thai authorities. The operation to dismantle scam networks is being conducted under a three-part enforcement strategy that involves cutting electricity, fuel, and internet access to disrupt criminal activities.
Authorities are also considering the partial closure of three border crossings to curb illicit operations while maintaining essential trade and travel routes. Myanmar’s government, ethnic groups, and security forces are actively working to dismantle scam syndicates, with Liu now overseeing developments on the ground. Repatriation will continue through the respective embassies, ensuring legal procedures are followed for those transferred to Thailand before being sent to their home countries.
Thai authorities have confirmed that legal proceedings against Colonel Saw Chit Thu, a key figure linked to scam networks, remain ongoing. Despite his recent role in suppressing call center operations, the case is still being handled by Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation in coordination with Myanmar. (NNT)
