Human Trafficking Victims Rescued in Myanmar, Repatriation Process Underway
Bangkok, February 12, 2023 – Fifteen Malaysians were among 260 foreign victims of call centre syndicates in Myawaddy, Myanmar, who were released by Myanmar authorities and sent to Thailand for deportation on Wednesday.
Myanmar authorities rescued the victims from KK Park and Shwe Kokko, two border towns infamous for human trafficking activities, before transferring them to Thailand for further processing and eventual repatriation to their home countries.
Thai Authorities to Provide Assistance and Protection
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the victims will undergo strict screening procedures under the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), a system designed to provide assistance and protection for human trafficking victims. After the screening process, Thai Foreign Ministry will coordinate with the respective embassies to facilitate the necessary documentation and arrange for the victims’ swift repatriation.
Thailand’s Commitment to Combating Human Trafficking
Phumtham emphasized that Thailand does not have a policy to establish shelters or refugee centers for these individuals, citing concerns over security risks and the potential for victims to fall back into trafficking networks. "The Thai government upholds a strict anti-human trafficking policy. Background checks will be conducted thoroughly on each individual to ensure they have no connections to trafficking syndicates before they are repatriated," he said.
Human Trafficking Hotspots
Myawaddy has become a key hub for human trafficking networks, luring workers from various countries into illegal activities, including call center scams, online gambling operations, and forced labor in illicit factories.
Close Cooperation between Thai and Myanmar Governments
Phumtham highlighted that the transfer and repatriation of the victims is a result of close cooperation between the Thai and Myanmar governments, aimed at dismantling human trafficking networks and ensuring the victims’ safe return to their home countries. He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to collaborating with international partners and neighboring countries to combat human trafficking and prevent future incidents.
Conclusion
The rescue and repatriation of the 260 foreign victims of human trafficking in Myanmar marks a significant step towards breaking down human trafficking networks and ensuring the safety of victims. The Thai government’s commitment to combating human trafficking, in collaboration with international partners, is a crucial step towards creating a safer world for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many Malaysians were among the 260 foreign victims of call center syndicates in Myawaddy, Myanmar?
A: 15
Q: Where were the victims transferred to after being rescued by Myanmar authorities?
A: Thailand
Q: What is the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) and how does it help human trafficking victims?
A: The NRM is a system designed to provide assistance and protection for human trafficking victims, and it will be used to screen and repatriate the victims.
Q: What is Thailand’s policy on establishing shelters or refugee centers for human trafficking victims?
A: Thailand does not have a policy to establish shelters or refugee centers for these individuals, citing concerns over security risks and the potential for victims to fall back into trafficking networks.