After Thailand cut off electricity and internet to border regions in Myanmar, call-center scam gangs released 261 foreign workers trapped in their operations, Bangkok Post reported.

The freed individuals, who had been trapped in call-center scams, were reportedly escorted to Thailand by Myanmar’s Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and arrived in Phop Phra district, Tak province, late Wednesday.

The Thai government now faces the challenge of repatriating these individuals while managing the broader implications of its crackdown on cross-border cybercrime.

Crippling Scam Operations

The Thai government’s strategy of targeting the infrastructure supporting scam operations appears to be yielding results. Authorities reportedly severed electricity and internet access to Myanmar’s border areas, where criminal call-center gangs operated.

The move disrupted operations that had long exploited foreign workers, many of whom had been deceived with promises of lucrative jobs before being forced into fraudulent activities.

The 261 individuals freed this week reportedly included Bangladeshis, Ethiopians, Kenyans, and Filipinos, among others. Thai officials will interview them to determine whether they were trafficked or had willingly participated in scam operations.

Those confirmed as victims will be repatriated within a month through coordination with their respective embassies. However, individuals found complicit in scams could face legal action in Thailand.

Despite the recent release, thousands remain caught in Myanmar’s scam networks. Reports indicate that over 17,000 individuals, predominantly Chinese nationals, continue to work in these illegal call centers.

The Scale of the Crisis

The true scale of the crisis suggests that further diplomatic and economic measures may be required to dismantle the industry completely. Thailand has bolstered its border security to prepare for potential new waves of releases. The government has also made it clear that lifting sanctions will only be considered if Myanmar proves its commitment to eradicating scam operations.

Myanmar’s call-center scams have been a longstanding issue, often linked to ‘pig butchering’ schemes, highly sophisticated investment frauds that lure victims with fake financial opportunities.

As Thailand continues its aggressive crackdown, regional actors may be forced to take stronger actions against these networks. The release of 261 individuals marks a step forward, but the broader battle against transnational cybercrime is far from over.

Expect ongoing updates as this story evolves.