Thousands rescued from illegal scam compounds in Myanmar as Thailand launches huge crackdown
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Thousands of Scam Center Victims Await Transfer from Myanmar
Above: Alleged scam center workers and victims rest during a crackdown operation by the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) on illicit activity in Shwe Kokko in Myanmar's eastern Myawaddy township Feb. 18, 2025. Image copyright: STR/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Scam groups are exploiting vulnerable people from Southeast Asia to the Middle East, tricking them into joining dreadfully unsafe cybercrime hubs. This is a global crisis that cost tens of billions of dollars in 2023 alone, demanding action beyond borders. Every government must bolster anti-trafficking operations to dismantle these networks and protect victims.
Narrative B
Governments also play a role in trafficking, usually through their inaction. Unfortunately, baseless claims — like every celebrity is involved in satanic child rings — divert resources from real victims. Yet, governments, including the US, have historically enabled trafficking through inaction or policy gaps, aiding criminals while conspiracies obscure the truth.