Thousands Rescued as Thailand, Myanmar Intensify Crackdown on Cyber Scams

Around 7,000 individuals have been rescued from illegal call centers in Myanmar as part of a significant crackdown on transnational crime syndicates, according to Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Efforts have intensified in response to a rise in scams, including romance fraud and illegal gambling, which have collectively cost victims in East and Southeast Asia an estimated $18 billion to $37 billion in 2023. Myanmar authorities have also announced the rescue of about 1,030 foreign nationals from scam centers, with 61 already returned to their home countries. The situation has prompted regional cooperation, with Malaysia working to free 22 more of its citizens believed to be victims of job scams in Myanmar. In addition, the military junta in Myanmar has been pressured to act against human trafficking, following a high-profile kidnapping case involving a Chinese actor. Reports indicate that rescued individuals have faced severe mistreatment while trapped in these operations, highlighting the urgent need for continued efforts to combat human trafficking and online fraud in the region.