Thousands Rescued From Myanmar Scam Centers Face Detention and Uncertainty

A crackdown freed over 7,000 people from forced cybercrime labor, but many remain in overcrowded, unsafe conditions awaiting repatriation.

Over 7,000 individuals from 24 countries, including 540 Indians, were freed from scam centers in Myanmar following a joint operation by Thai, Chinese, and Myanmar authorities.
Victims were lured with fake job offers and forced into cybercrime operations targeting global victims, with refusal to comply met with abuse and violence.
Released individuals are now held in overcrowded, unhygienic facilities at the Myanmar-Thai border, with limited food, medical care, and no clear timeline for return to their home countries.
The Indian government has repatriated 283 nationals so far, with more efforts underway, while other countries face challenges in arranging resources for their citizens’ return.
Advocates warn that the scam networks remain operational, with no major arrests or shutdowns of the criminal infrastructure despite the crackdown.