BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand will screen 53 victims of human trafficking from Myanmar before repatriating them to their home countries.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that Myanmar authorities requested Thailand’s assistance in temporarily housing the individuals.
The group includes nationals from eight countries: 12 from the Philippines, 4 from Kenya, 1 from Tanzania, 2 from Brazil, 21 from Ethiopia, 5 from Pakistan, 2 from Bangladesh, and 6 from Nepal. Myanmar requested as it struggles to manage the situation, partly due to the shutdown of illicit networks.
Minister Phumtham credited Thailand’s pressure tactics, including cutting fuel, electricity, and internet access, for forcing Myanmar to take action against trafficking operations. He dismissed concerns over potential trade retaliation, stating that any threats to block Thai exports were Myanmar’s internal issue, not Thailand’s.
In response to concerns that Thailand could become a de facto refugee center, Minister Phumtham made it clear that the country will not establish refugee camps. Instead, each individual will be screened and repatriated. The process involves identity verification, passport checks, and embassy coordination and is expected to take three weeks to one month. Thailand will not accept additional cases unless home countries commit to taking their nationals back.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation along Thailand’s western border, particularly in Phop Phra District of Tak Province, where the first group is expected to arrive. Some estimates suggest tens of thousands of victims could eventually be repatriated. While the scale remains uncertain, Phumtham assured that the government is prepared for any influx. Thai border security forces are on high alert to manage the situation.
For now, the victims will find temporary safety in Thailand. Their return home will depend on international cooperation, ensuring they are not left stranded after escaping exploitation. (NNT)
