Thailand’s Crackdown on Scam Centers Faces Criticism from Lawmaker

Thailand’s crackdown on scam centers near the Myanmar border is insufficient, with only a small fraction of the estimated 300,000 workers rescued. Rangsiman Rome, an opposition lawmaker, emphasized the need for comprehensive measures beyond current efforts to dismantle these illegal operations. Corruption within the government further complicates the issue, necessitating urgent action to address these challenges.

The ongoing crackdown on scam centers along Thailand’s border with Myanmar has failed to adequately address the problem, according to Rangsiman Rome, a prominent Thai opposition lawmaker. He noted that only a small fraction of the estimated 300,000 workers in the Myawaddy area have been rescued, with fewer than 10,000 individuals freed from these illegal operations. Rome expressed concerns that the existing measures merely shake the foundation of the extensive scam empire without dismantling it.

The Thai government, with support from China, is striving to eliminate these scam operations, especially following the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing in Thailand, which garnered significant media attention. Wang was subsequently found in Myawaddy, highlighting the severity of the situation. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra acknowledged the urgency of tackling these scam centers, citing the government’s ongoing efforts to address the issue.

As part of their strategy, Thai authorities have cut off essential supplies, including electricity, internet, and fuel, to border regions such as Myawaddy. This effort aims to impede the operations of armed groups that facilitate human trafficking and exploit scam victims. Currently, over 7,000 foreigners, mainly from China, are awaiting repatriation after being trafficked into these illegal centers.

However, Rome criticized the government for not taking decisive action against the key figures orchestrating these scams, such as Colonel Saw Chit Thu, a purported Myanmar warlord linked to the proliferation of scam centers. He asserted the need for accountability and transparency within Thailand’s governmental and security agencies to combat the growing issue. Recent police transfers from Tak province were initiated due to alleged collusion in human trafficking, emphasizing the severity of corruption within the system.

In summary, Thailand’s crackdown on scam centers near the Myanmar border appears insufficient, as highlighted by Rangsiman Rome, an opposition lawmaker. While some measures have been implemented, the scale of the problem, including the involvement of powerful figures and government corruption, necessitates stronger action and comprehensive reform. Addressing these illegal operations is critical to combating human trafficking and restoring public trust.

Original Source: www.usnews.com