A rescue operation by the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) in Myanmar has freed over 7,100 foreigners who were being held captive in international scam call centres. The victims are from 28 nationalities and include 6,716 men and 425 women.
The largest group of victims comes from China, with 4,860 individuals, followed by Vietnam, India, Ethiopia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Pakistan, Kenya, and Taiwan. The BGF has sent a list of names to Thailand’s Ratchamanu Task Force for processing, but the foreigners remain in Myanmar awaiting repatriation.
The Karen warlord Saw Chit Thu oversees the operation and has cracked down on human trafficking. The rescue comes after Thailand cut off power, oil, and internet to five sites in three Myanmar border townships following a publicity stunt involving a Chinese actor. The BGF is now calling on Thai authorities to expedite the repatriation of the rescued individuals.
However, the Thai government is hesitant to allow the foreigners to enter Thailand unless their destination countries are ready to receive them. Embassies are currently arranging the return of the victims.
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2968651/7-000-foreigners-in-myanmar-await-repatriation