Thailand is contemplating the construction of a wall along its border with Cambodia to prevent illegal crossings, the government announced on Monday. This proposal arises amid an increasing international effort to dismantle extensive networks of illicit scam operations in Southeast Asia.
These scam centers, often situated near Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, have been linked to widespread financial fraud. The United Nations has reported that criminal organizations have trafficked hundreds of thousands of individuals into these operations in recent years. Just this past weekend, Cambodian authorities transferred 119 Thai nationals to Thai police following a raid on a scam compound in Poipet, where more than 215 people were rescued.
Details about the potential border wall remain limited. Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub confirmed the proposal is under consideration, stating, “If it is done, how will it be done? What results and how will it solve problems? This is a study.” The spokesperson did not indicate the wall’s anticipated length, and Cambodia’s government declined to comment on the proposal.
The border between Thailand and Cambodia spans 508 miles, and the Thai defense ministry has previously suggested constructing a wall to block a 34-mile natural crossing between Sa Kaeo province in Thailand and Poipet, which is currently secured only by razor wire.
Telecom fraud operations have persisted for years in Southeast Asia, ensnaring individuals from various countries, including regions as far away as West Africa. These operations have come under intensified scrutiny following the January rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was lured to Thailand with false job promises, only to be abducted and taken to a scam center in Myanmar.
In Myawaddy, Myanmar, over 7,000 foreigners—predominantly from China—are currently awaiting cross-border passage into Thailand, which is coordinating with relevant embassies to facilitate their repatriation.
Reports indicate that many foreigners rescued from these compounds are now stuck in poor conditions at a militia camp in Myanmar and struggle to find a way home. A top Thai lawmaker recently stated that the ongoing crackdown is inadequate, estimating that around 300,000 individuals are operating within compounds in Myawaddy alone.
Credit: The Independent
