23-11-2023 (YANGON) The city of Bangkok witnessed emotional reunions this week as approximately 300 Thai nationals, caught up in the conflict in Myanmar, were evacuated and returned home. Among them was a 26-year-old individual who, according to his relieved father Polpisit, had been lured into working as a call centre scammer in Myanmar’s Laukkai town, despite being promised a lucrative job opportunity with an international company. The ongoing conflict in Myanmar, marked by clashes between anti-coup fighters and the military, has led to the takeover of over 150 military bases and outposts by armed ethnic groups in the borderlands.
Polpisit, fearing for his son’s safety, expressed concerns that his son might be exploited, harmed, or even killed in the volatile situation. However, recent evacuations have brought relief to families anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones.
While the conflict rages on, some experts, such as Ms Sarah Yan from global risk consultancy Control Risks, believe that Myanmar’s military is likely to prevail despite losing control of certain areas. Yan emphasized that the military’s firepower remains a significant factor, and the armed ethnic groups are not necessarily united, each pursuing its self-interests.
In the midst of these challenges, foreign nationals, including Malaysians and Filipinos, find themselves trapped in Laukkai, facing shortages of food and water. The Thai government has evacuated its nationals, with at least 30 believed to still be in Laukkai. However, many evacuees are now facing scrutiny, as authorities suspect some may have been involved in cyber scamming activities in Myanmar.
Relatives of those evacuated are currently unable to meet them, as authorities conduct interviews to determine their status and the reasons for being in Myanmar. Thai MP Kannavee Suebsang has pledged to ensure fair treatment for the returnees, advocating for accurate identification of potential human trafficking victims and their proper support. He emphasized the need for job opportunities in Thailand, education, and the development of legal procedures to protect individuals vulnerable to human trafficking.
As the conflict continues to unfold, the situation remains fluid, and efforts are ongoing to provide assistance to citizens affected by the turmoil in Myanmar.
