Thailand is contemplating a border wall with Cambodia to deter illegal crossings amidst a wider effort to combat scam operations in Southeast Asia. Recent raids have revealed the scale of human trafficking linked to these scams, with the Thai government preparing measures to enhance border security. Although details remain limited, the proposal signifies a serious commitment to addressing the broader implications of organized crime in the region.

Thailand is currently deliberating the construction of a wall along its border with Cambodia, specifically to address illegal crossings. This proposal arises during an intensified international effort to dismantle extensive scam operations prevalent throughout Southeast Asia. Numerous scam centers, often located near Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, are linked to significant financial fraud and human trafficking, with reports indicating that criminal organizations have exploited and trafficked hundreds of thousands into these operations over recent years.

Recent developments included the handover of 119 Thai citizens from Cambodian authorities to Thai police after a raid on a scam site in Poipet, where over 215 individuals were freed. Despite the wall proposal being reviewed, Government Spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub remarked that details remain undeveloped, stating, “If it is done, how will it be done? What results and how will it solve problems? This is a study.” However, there was no mention of the anticipated length of the wall.

Cambodia’s government has declined to comment about the wall proposal, and their foreign ministry has not provided an immediate response. The shared border between Thailand and Cambodia stretches approximately 508 miles. The Thai defense ministry has previously suggested a wall specifically to obstruct a 34-mile natural crossing between Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province and Poipet, currently secured only by razor wire.

Scam operations, particularly telecom fraud centers, have been a longstanding issue in Southeast Asia. These activities have ensnared victims from various nations, including individuals from as far as West Africa. Renewed scrutiny followed the abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing in January, who fell victim to a job scam and was subsequently taken to a scam center in Myanmar.

In Myanmar’s Myawaddy region, over 7,000 foreigners, predominantly from China, are awaiting passage into Thailand. The Thai authorities are engaging with various embassies to facilitate repatriations. Reports indicate that many individuals recently removed from these facilities are currently in poor conditions at a militia camp in Myanmar, facing challenges in arranging their return home. Moreover, a leading Thai lawmaker has highlighted the inadequacy of current crackdowns, estimating that around 300,000 individuals are involved in scams solely in Myawaddy.

In summary, Thailand’s consideration of a border wall with Cambodia reflects ongoing concerns about illicit activities along its borders. The initiative aims to tackle prevalent scam operations, human trafficking, and illegal crossings. Although still in deliberation, the proposal underscores the critical need for regional cooperation in addressing these significant social issues.

Original Source: www.the-independent.com

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