24-2-2024 (YANGON) Myanmar’s military and police have carried out a significant operation resulting in the detention of 148 Thai nationals involved in scam call centres and online gambling activities. The crackdown unfolded in Tachileik, a border town opposite Mae Sai in Chiang Rai.
The raids targeted three suspected illegal call centres located behind the 1G1 Hotel on Thursday morning, as reported by the Tachileik News Agency. In total, nearly 700 individuals were apprehended, comprising 540 Myanmar nationals, one Chinese citizen, and the 148 Thais.
Authorities also seized a number of items, including computers, eight automobiles, and 120 motorcycles during the operation.
Among the detained Thais, some were identified as administrators of the call centres, shuttling between Thailand and Myanmar using temporary passes. They are currently undergoing interrogation as part of the ongoing investigation.
Myanmar authorities have announced that all individuals taken into custody will face legal prosecution within Myanmar before any deliberation on extradition is considered.
This crackdown is seen as a response to pressure from Beijing, urging Myanmar to take action against criminal operations based in the country that primarily target Chinese nationals. In recent months, the military junta has intensified its efforts, leading to increased arrests and deportations. Chinese media reported in January that over 41,000 suspects were handed over to China last year.
Late last year, more than 500 Thais employed in scam centres in Laukkaing, Shan State, were repatriated. Thai authorities later determined that 174 of them were victims of human trafficking. The situation underscores the growing collaboration between nations in tackling cross-border criminal activities and ensuring justice for those involved.
