Scam Workers Flee Myanmar Raid, Overwhelm Thai Border

TAK, Oct 24 (TNA) - Hundreds of foreign workers, many believed to be involved in online scam operations, fled a notorious compound in Myanmar and crossed the border into Thailand after the Myanmar military launched a raid on the area. 

The Myanmar military operation, reportedly aimed at suppressing resistance groups and dismantling Chinese-run cybercrime hubs, targeted the sprawling "KK Park" scam compound located directly opposite Mae Sot in Thailand. 

The initial rush saw 202 people, mostly Chinese nationals, swim across the Moei River and surrender to Thai border forces on Thursday.

Throughout the night and into Thursday morning, over 400 additional foreign nationals, including large numbers of Indian and African individuals, crossed the river near Mae Sot’s permanent border checkpoints. 

Thai authorities were forced to deploy extra personnel to transfer the scam workers to four emergency reception areas.

With the current count exceeding 500 foreign nationals, the temporary shelters in Mae Sot are nearing capacity, and officials anticipate more arrivals. 

All those who crossed the border face legal charges for illegal entry under Thai law, but they are being provided with food, water, and security under international humanitarian principles. -819 (TNA)