13-9-2024 (BANGKOK) A harrowing tale of escape and survival has come to light as a 29-year-old Chinese man was discovered near the Three Pagodas checkpoint in Kanchanaburi province, Thailand, still wearing shackles. The man, who had fled from a scam operation in Pyathonsu, Myanmar, was found in the early hours of the morning, his ordeal shedding light on the dark underbelly of cross-border criminal activities.
According to eyewitness accounts, the man was spotted in the Soi Kaset 5 area of the Thai border region on 29 August. It is believed he had escaped from the vicinity of Soi Pani 9, an area close to the Myanmar border known for its gambling establishments, primarily operated by Chinese nationals.
The escapee’s journey began with a voluntary trip to Myanmar, travelling from China to Vientiane, Laos, then flying to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport before making his way to Kanchanaburi province. From there, he illegally crossed into Pyathonsu, Myanmar. However, what started as a willing venture soon turned into a nightmare as he was coerced into engaging in activities against his will.
The man reported facing inhumane punishments when he refused to comply with the demands of his captors. Unable to endure the mistreatment any longer, he made the desperate decision to flee, still wearing the shackles that had bound him. His daring escape led him across the Myanmar border and into Thailand, where he was eventually discovered.
This incident has brought attention to the broader issue of Chinese nationals relocating to Pyathonsu. Sources suggest this migration may be linked to the Karen National Union’s demand for all online businesses and illegal immigrants to vacate the area by 31 October. Local authorities have reported an influx of Chinese nationals heading towards the Three Pagodas checkpoint, many without proper identification and carrying communication and IT equipment.
Further complicating the situation are reports of Chinese nationals purchasing land in Pyathonsu and leasing long-term residences along the main road leading to the Three Pagodas checkpoint. This area, merely a kilometre from the Thai border, could potentially signal a shift of grey market activities from Myawaddy to this new location.
