The Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) has arrested several individuals involved in online scam operations in Shwe Koko, a newly developed town near Myawaddy, Karen State. The detained Chinese nationals are now being repatriated to China via chartered flights from Mae Sot International Airport in Thailand, with the process starting on 20 February.
On 20 February, 200 Chinese nationals were sent back to China, followed by another 300 on 21 February. The group was escorted by over 100 armed personnel through Friendship Bridge No. 2.
This action is part of an international effort between Thailand, China, and Myanmar to dismantle online scam centers that have been defrauding victims worldwide through methods such as fraudulent romantic schemes and illegal gambling. The scams have cost billions of dollars in losses.
A spokesperson for the Karen BGF revealed that over 2,000 foreign nationals were uncovered during the crackdown, with many of them being Chinese. These individuals are being repatriated in three groups through Mae Sot International Airport.
The Chinese Embassy in Myanmar confirmed on 20 February that more than 800 Chinese citizens involved in fraudulent activities would be returned to China in the following days.
In addition to the arrests, Thailand has imposed a ban on importing 12 types of goods, including electricity and fuel, to areas such as Myawaddy, Phayathonzu in Karen State, and Tachileik in Shan State, which are known to harbor online scam centers. The ban, effective from 5 February, aims to disrupt the operations of these fraud rings.
The Karen BGF began its investigation into the online scam activities on 14 February after reports that the Thai government was preparing an arrest warrant for Saw Chit Thu, the leader of the Karen BGF.
Thai media estimate that up to 70,000 individuals may have been trafficked through these scam centers in Myawaddy, sending victims to over 20 countries, including China, as part of human trafficking operations.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister confirmed that over 600 Chinese nationals from the scam centers were set to be repatriated to China starting last week.
