The BBC recently visited Shwe Kokko, a city in Myanmar's Karen State, at the invitation of Yatai, the company responsible for its construction. This visit coincided with a significant operation involving the release of over 250 individuals from 20 different nationalities, who were working in telecom fraud centers. The Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA) orchestrated the workers' release and arranged for their transport to Thailand. The operation highlights ongoing concerns about human trafficking and telecommunications fraud in the region.
The majority of those freed hailed from African and Asian nations, reflecting the diverse recruitment strategies employed by these illicit operations. Upon arrival in Thailand, the Thai army received the workers and began assessments to determine if they were victims of human trafficking. This development underscores the complex nature of the situation, as authorities work to unravel the extent of exploitation involved.
The Thai Department of Special Investigation has responded by requesting arrest warrants for three commanders of the Karen National Army. Among those targeted is Saw Chit Thu, a prominent Karen warlord who allegedly facilitated a deal with a Chinese company to construct Shwe Kokko. Despite Yatai's claims that scams no longer persist in the city, the situation remains under scrutiny as authorities continue their investigations.
Historically, the Myanmar government has struggled to assert control over large parts of Karen State since gaining independence in 1948. This lack of control has allowed various groups to operate with relative impunity in the region, complicating efforts to establish law and order. The DKBA commander played a pivotal role in the recent operation by contacting a Thai member of parliament to coordinate the handover of the workers, illustrating regional cooperation in addressing these challenges.
In response to these developments, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to express commitment towards shutting down scam centers. Additionally, measures have been taken to sever access to power and fuel from Thailand to prevent scam operators from utilizing the country as a transit point. Banking and visa regulations have also been tightened to curb fraudulent activities.
Shwe Kokko itself has come under scrutiny for its alleged reliance on scam-related funding. Despite this reputation, the city has prominently displayed billboards declaring that forced labor is prohibited and urging "online businesses" to vacate. These public declarations indicate an attempt to distance the city from its controversial past and align with legitimate development practices.