9 Thai nationals escape from scam call center
SA KAEO, THAILAND — Nine Thai nationals aged 23-47 were rescued at a border checkpoint after escaping from abusive conditions at a Chinese-run call center scam operation located inside the Puli Casino building in Poipet, Cambodia.
The victims said they responded to Facebook ads promising high-paying jobs but were instead forced into scamming other Thais under threat of violence. About 200 other Thais are still being held captive on the casino’s 7th floor.
The group that escaped set their room on fire around 3 AM as a diversion. Nine made it over the border to Thailand, where they were treated for injuries before being questioned. Two others were recaptured.
Authorities said the Chinese-run scam center threatens and beats those who don’t make enough fraudulent calls. Some women were also pressured into prostitution.
Thai and Cambodian authorities are cooperating to investigate the casino and assist the estimated 200 victims still trapped inside. Negotiations are underway between senior police officials of both countries.
Authorities remain alert about foreigners luring Thais into dubious overseas job offers. Last month, 41 Thais who were reportedly involved in a fraudulent call center operation were rescued from Laukkai, Shan State, near the Chinese border.
The United Nations Human Rights Office earlier released a report highlighting the alarming rise of individuals trafficked into online scams in Southeast Asia. They advised exercising caution regarding vague recruitment pitches.
