Hong Kong Task Force in Thailand Targets Job Scam Prevention

[webfact]

File photo courtesy: South China Morning Post

 

In a proactive response to a surge in job scam cases, Hong Kong's security officials have dispatched a task force to Thailand. This initiative highlights the growing concern over "high-paying" job offers that have lured unsuspecting individuals into human trafficking syndicates across Southeast Asia.

 

The task force, spearheaded by Undersecretary for Security Michael Cheuk Hau-yip, aims to collaborate with Thai authorities and the Chinese embassy to address the intricate web of scams. The visit underscores Hong Kong's commitment to safeguarding its citizens, as recent events—including the rescue of mainland actor Wang Xing—have reignited fears of trafficking traps.

 

Security legislator Gary Chan Hak-kan emphasises that the high-profile mission could serve as a crucial reminder for residents to scrutinise lucrative job offers critically. "The task force's presence in Thailand could act as a deterrent while highlighting the seriousness of these cases," Chan explains.

 

The delegation's collaborative efforts with Bangkok's Economic and Trade Office (ETO) and local authorities aim to bolster the capacity to handle such complex cases. Although the ETO plays a pivotal role, Chan acknowledges that the task force's blend of immigration officers, police, and bureau personnel enhances coordination and diplomacy.

Lai Tung-kok, a legislator and former security minister, welcomes the task force's approach, viewing it as a strategic diplomatic move. He stresses the importance of ongoing educational campaigns to prevent further victimisation, expressing optimism in the capabilities of Thai authorities to manage the situation effectively.

 

Between 2022 and early 2023, Hong Kong reported 46 cases of citizens ensnared in Myanmar and Cambodia, deceived by promises of high-paying work. Their passports were seized upon arrival, leading to forced labour under harsh conditions, guarded by armed personnel.

 

Remarkably, 43 of the 46 victims have returned to Hong Kong, while three opted out of further assistance after rescue. Cheuk highlights that current syndicates have adapted, directing individuals to South East Asia under misleading pretences.

 

Amidst shifting tactics, the backdrop of earlier operations near Myanmar's Laos border has now expanded to northern Thailand. Cheuk cautions Hong Kongers against venturing near borders with Myanmar and Laos, known hotspots for such criminal activities.

 

As of December, security secretary Chris Tang Ping-keung noted an increase to 28 reported cases in 2024, with 12 individuals still unaccounted for. Some of these, aged 21 to 43, have reported restrictions on movement but maintain communication with families and authorities.

 

The task force's mission, while significant, serves as a broader call for vigilance. It marks an earnest step towards dismantling sophisticated scam operations, reminding potential workers of the ever-evolving risks tied to too-good-to-be-true job offers, reported Bangkok Post, South China Morning Post.

 

-- 2025-01-14

 

 

[hotchilli]

6 hours ago, webfact said:

In a proactive response to a surge in job scam cases, Hong Kong's security officials have dispatched a task force to Thailand. This initiative highlights the growing concern over "high-paying" job offers that have lured unsuspecting individuals into human trafficking syndicates across Southeast Asia.

Hong Kong officials now run by China now coming here to proactively stop Chinese from scamming Chinese?