India Repatriates 125 Nationals from Thailand After Release from Myanmar Scam Centres

India successfully repatriated 125 nationals from Thailand following their release from scam centres in Myanmar. This brings the total to 1,500 Indians repatriated since March, facilitated by the Indian Air Force and coordinated efforts with Thai authorities.

India recently repatriated 125 citizens from Thailand using a military aircraft. These individuals had been released from scam centres in Myawaddy, Myanmar. The Indian Embassy in Bangkok confirmed this development. Since March, a total of 1,500 Indians have been brought back from such centres in Myanmar through Thailand.

The Indian Air Force operated the special flight that facilitated the return of these nationals. The embassy shared images of the repatriated individuals on X, highlighting their arrival from Mae Sot, a Thai border town. This effort is part of India's initiative to bring back citizens trapped in scam centres across Southeast Asia.

Coordination with Thai Authorities

The Indian government has collaborated closely with the Royal Thai Government and Tak Province authorities to ensure the safe return of its citizens. The embassy emphasised the importance of verifying foreign employers' credentials before accepting overseas job offers. They also warned against misusing visa-free entry into Thailand for employment purposes.

On November 6, India repatriated 270 nationals from Thailand using two military transport aircraft. These individuals had fled to Mae Sot after escaping a notorious scam centre in Myanmar. The crackdown on this centre led to their escape and subsequent return to India.

International Repatriation Efforts

Around 500 Indians were among 1,500 people from 28 countries who crossed into Thailand last month. This movement followed a raid on KK Park, a cybercrime hub in Myawaddy, Myanmar. The raid prompted many to flee and seek refuge across the border.

The embassy's advisory stressed that Indian passport holders should only use visa-free entry for tourism or short business trips. Misusing this privilege for employment could lead to complications and is strongly discouraged.

India's efforts to repatriate its citizens highlight the challenges faced by those trapped in scam operations abroad. The government's proactive measures aim to ensure their safe return while cautioning others about potential employment scams overseas.

With inputs from PTI