In a harrowing tale of deceit and abuse, Shazab, a 24-year-old from Pakistan, revealed the ordeal he faced after being allegedly sold to a compound in Thailand. The compound, reportedly run by Chinese nationals, forced him into managing a team engaged in IT scams. This revelation is just one part of a broader issue plaguing Southeast Asia, as thousands of individuals are coerced into similar situations.
Shazab was held in a compound with approximately ten two-storey buildings, where he and others were tasked with defrauding online "clients" of $10,000 each day. He described an environment of relentless pressure and abuse, working over 15 hours a day without pay. The United Nations estimates that at least 120,000 people in Myanmar and another 100,000 in Cambodia are trapped in such exploitative conditions.
“The Chinese would shock me with electric probes almost daily. I endured this continuously for nine months,” – Seye
The use of electric probes was a common punitive measure for those who failed to meet their quotas. Victims were also reportedly locked in dark rooms for up to a week and subjected to physical torture. Shazab himself was forced into acts of violence against his team under duress.
“They ordered me to torture my team members. When I said I couldn’t do it, I was beaten for three straight days,” – Shazab
Research from the US Institute of Peace highlights the scale of these operations, estimating they generate $63.9 billion annually in global revenue, with Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos accounting for the majority at $39 billion. These operations have become increasingly globalized, ensnaring victims from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America.
The Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBD) confirmed that Shazab was among 260 people transferred across the Thai-Myanmar border this February. The group was working at a scam center in Kyauk Khet, located in Kayin State along the border. In addition to Shazab's account, Luckas, a 31-year-old from Brazil, shared his own escape attempt and subsequent punishment.
“After I secretly contacted home and told them about the conditions here … They beat me a lot,” – Luckas
Despite the harrowing experiences, Luckas expressed relief upon his eventual rescue.
“Now I feel good. I am not afraid,” – Luckas
Thailand has responded with a crackdown on these illicit operations. Authorities have cut internet, electricity, and fuel supplies in five targeted areas where criminal groups are suspected to operate. This initiative aims to dismantle networks that have allegedly trafficked over 7,000 individuals into illegal call center operations in Myanmar.
Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, an observer of these operations, noted the complexities involved as some individuals are lured by promises of wealth while others are coerced into criminal activities against their will.
“Some of them voluntarily go there and work, try to scam other people, get lots of money and go back,” – Thatchai Pitaneelaboot
“In other cases people were forced into criminality and subjected to violence.” – Thatchai Pitaneelaboot
Victims like Shazab and Luckas often face resale to other compounds for as much as $10,000 if they fail to meet their scamming quotas. They endure severe physical punishments such as being forced to perform over 1,000 squats as further retribution for their failure to meet daily targets.