The Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) is preparing to deport approximately 10,000 individuals involved in cyber scams from Myanmar to Thailand. This move marks a significant crackdown on illicit activities in the region. The deportations are set to proceed at a rate of 500 people per day. Recently, the BGF successfully transferred 61 people across a border bridge into Thailand. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Myanmar and Thai authorities to dismantle centres associated with cyber scams, drug smuggling, and gambling.
These centres have also been linked to human trafficking, with many foreigners being coerced into working under duress. The cyber scam industry has burgeoned into a billion-dollar enterprise, particularly in Myanmar's borderlands where scam compounds have proliferated. In collaboration with Thai authorities, the BGF has arranged for the reception of approximately 7,000 workers from these scam compounds. A recent operation resulted in the rescue of over 250 foreign nationals from an online scam centre in Kyauk Khet, who were subsequently handed over to Thailand.
"We have announced to get rid of all scams from our soil. We are now implementing it," said Major Naing Maung Zaw, a spokesman for the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF).
This crackdown comes amid heightened efforts to combat illegal activities in Shwe Kokko, located in Myanmar's eastern Myawaddy township. The BGF's actions have included identifying and arresting human traffickers and fraudsters operating within investment projects in the region.
"We have identified, arrested, and suppressed human traffickers and fraudsters who are illegally operating within investment projects in our region," stated BGF Major General Saw Chit Thu.
In addition to tackling cyber scams and human trafficking, the BGF's recent operations have facilitated the release and repatriation of foreign nationals from these illicit centres. Among those deported were 10 Chinese nationals linked to the high-profile alleged kidnapping of an actor rescued from a cyber fraud centre in Myanmar.
"We have made a list and are prepared to transfer about 10,000 people (to Thailand)," added Major Naing Maung Zaw.
The ongoing crackdown underscores the BGF's commitment to eradicating scams and illicit operations from their controlled territories. By coordinating with Thai authorities and making systematic efforts to deport involved individuals, the BGF aims to restore order and security to the region.
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