Chinese President Xi Jinping praised Thailand’s actions against scam centers targeting Chinese citizens during a meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The centers, located near the Thai-Myanmar border, employ trafficked individuals and have raised safety concerns among tourists. Both leaders emphasized continued cooperation in law enforcement and security to combat these growing threats.
Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed gratitude to Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for Thailand’s decisive actions against scam centers that target Chinese citizens. These scam operations have proliferated near the Thai-Myanmar border, often relying on trafficked individuals forced to defraud their fellow countrymen. The situation has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of tourists traveling to Thailand.
During their meeting in Beijing, Xi commended Thailand’s strong efforts addressing issues related to online gambling and scams. He emphasized the importance of enhanced collaboration concerning security, law enforcement, and judicial matters to safeguard citizens’ lives and property. In a notable development, 61 individuals, including 34 Chinese nationals, were returned to Thailand after being rescued from fraud centers in Myanmar.
The Thai government considers these scam centers a national security concern and prioritizes the safety of both citizens and tourists. In a commitment to combat these crimes, Thai officials have implemented measures like cutting electricity to multiple scam locations in Myanmar. This effort aligns with Thailand’s broader goals to stabilize its tourism sector, particularly following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The increase in scams has particularly affected Chinese tourist sentiment; this was evident during the recent Lunar New Year period when visits declined significantly. Such concerns were amplified by high-profile cases, such as the reported rescue of actor Wang Xing, reflecting broader fears surrounding potential kidnappings.
The proliferation of scam centers along the Thai-Myanmar border has emerged as a critical issue, exploiting vulnerable individuals for financial gain through deceitful practices. Analysts indicate that this illicit industry, which targets Chinese citizens excessively, could be worth billions. The situation is particularly alarming given the history of trafficking and forced labor in these operations, raising serious humanitarian and safety concerns. Thailand’s response involves both national security measures and an effort to reassure foreign tourists, particularly from China, who are vital to Thailand’s tourism recovery post-pandemic.
In conclusion, the ongoing cooperation between China and Thailand illustrates significant efforts to combat the rising threat of scam centers. By enhancing security and law enforcement collaboration, both countries aim to protect tourists and citizens alike. The return of those rescued reinforces the urgency of addressing this pressing issue while sustaining tourist confidence in the region.
Original Source: www.thegriffonnews.com
