Bangkok: Cyber police assess the situation on the border after the government issued pressure measures, finding that the number of online crime reports has decreased, and are monitoring the relocation of call center gangs' bases of operations.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwpaen, Commander of the Technology Crime Investigation Police, provided insights during a press conference regarding the activities along the border following heightened state pressure on crime networks. The Cyber Police received a report from the Director of the Thai-Burmese Border Command Center about 260 foreigners of various nationalities, including Ethiopians, Kenyans, and Chinese, who were intercepted in Phop Phra District, Tak Province. These individuals were involved with call center gangs, although one claimed to be a victim of human trafficking.
On February 14, BGF forces took control of the Ya Tai project building in Shwe Kokko Township, rescuing 2,000 victims linked to the gangs. These individuals are being repatriated through Mae Sot District, Tak Province, where investigations will determine their involvement with the call center operations, the countries affected, and potential charges for deception.
The authorities are diligently examining electronic devices and interrogating individuals to ascertain their affiliations with specific gangs and identify their victims. While this group predominantly targeted individuals in countries such as China and India, any evidence of offenses against Thais will trigger legal actions under Thai law, potentially classifying them as part of a transnational crime organization. Information pertinent to other countries will be forwarded accordingly for further investigation.
Cyber police continue to implement measures to prevent fraud and illegal border crossings associated with call center gangs. Collaborative efforts with neighboring countries are underway to monitor and disrupt the relocation of these operations, with intelligence suggesting a shift from the western to eastern borders.
This crackdown has yielded promising results, significantly reducing online crime reports. While last year saw 1,200 cases reported daily, the figure decreased to 1,100 in January and currently stands at around 800 cases, indicating a positive trend. Further updates from other countries are pending as information is compiled and verified.