Myanmar detains thousands rescued from forced cyber scams

“If we die here with health issues, who is responsible?” an Indian detainee told AP, speaking anonymously.

Ethnic militias in Myanmar, who previously controlled some scam operations, now say they are waiting for foreign governments to facilitate repatriation. While China has arranged flights for its citizens, many others—including groups from India, Pakistan, and Africa—remain stuck. Some Ethiopians, for example, cannot afford a flight home.

Thailand has refused to allow the detainees to cross the border unless immediate repatriation is secured.

Cyber scam industry thriving

Cyber scam operations expanded during the pandemic, with the United Nations estimating losses of $18–37 billion in Asia in 2023, reported AP. Many of those trafficked were recruited with fake job offers, then forced to run online scams under threats of violence.

“Your passport is confiscated, you cannot go outside, and everything is like hell,” said a Pakistani man, as per AP, who was among the rescued. Victims were subjected to 16-hour workdays and brutal punishments if they refused to comply. “The bosses are rich as hell and can buy anything,” another detainee said.

Despite recent raids, scam operations continue in Myanmar, with criminal syndicates adapting to shutdowns by using alternative power sources and satellite internet.

(With inputs from AP)