Author: HUIZHONG WU Associated Press, JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI Associated Press, MARTHA MENDOZA Associated Press, ABC News
Published on: 09/03/2025 | 11:08:33
AI Summary:
Gangs running illegal scams have trapped hundreds of thousands of people in locked compounds in Myanmar, Cambodia and other places in Southeast Asia. People who have managed to leave say they were initially lured to Thailand with promises of lucrative jobs. Refusing to work could bring beatings, starvation and electric shocks. Thai government cut off power and electricity, and government-aligned armed groups released some 7,000 people from scam centers. But more than a month after the crackdown began, thousands of people are still detained in Myanmar. In clandestine calls, survivors say they fear for their lives as illness is rampant and conditions are unsafe. Compounds have resources to deal with internet and electricity cuts, running on fuel-powered generators and using satellite internet service provided by Starlink. If you or someone you know is being held and forced to scam others, here are ways to get in touch with us.
Original: 626 words
Summary: 149 words
Percent reduction: 76.20%