Thailand has cut off power, oil, and internet services to Myanmar border towns including Payathonzu and Myawaddy in a bid to crack down on Chinese call-centre scams. The move has led to the eviction of thousands of Chinese business owners who had been operating illicit businesses in the areas.
According to Thai security sources, the disconnection of utility services began on February 5, affecting over 50,000 people in Payathonzu. Local property owners reported that many of their Chinese tenants had abandoned their properties and moved to another location about 10 kilometers away.
The crackdown is part of a broader effort by Thai authorities to target call-centre scam operations that employ thousands of foreigners, including trafficking victims. Thailand has previously identified three sites targeted in the crackdown, with Payathonzu being one of them.
The move has resulted in the closure of hundreds of shops and restaurants owned by Chinese businesses in Payathonzu, which had been allegedly used as fronts for their call-centre operations. Authorities have also released 261 foreigners from Myawaddy and are expected to free up to 10,000 more people in the coming days and weeks.
The situation in Payathonzu highlights Thailand’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and organized crime in its neighboring countries.
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2960290/chinese-led-scam-gangs-leave-payathonzu