TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a coordinated effort spanning multiple months, Taiwanese authorities and the Thai government have successfully rescued 55 Taiwanese nationals from a fraudulent operation compound situated along the volatile Thailand-Myanmar border. The victims returned home Wednesday (May 7) after Thai officials strategically cut power and internet services to cripple the criminal network's activities, part of Thailand's broader initiative to rehabilitate its international standing.
Emerging from their ordeal, one victim described fleeing Taiwan amid family conflicts only to endure three months of systematic violence within the compound's walls. "I'm deeply grateful to the Thai military for helping us escape," the victim stated, visibly relieved to be home. Another survivor, trapped for approximately six months after being enticed by deceptive job offers with substantial salaries, recounted experiencing "relentless psychological pressure and physical violence" while facing arbitrary performance expectations.
Taiwan's National Police Agency has highlighted its escalating campaign against transnational fraud operations and human trafficking networks, a priority since 2015. The Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB, 刑事局) reports dismantling three sophisticated trafficking organizations and apprehending 12 suspects in related operations. According to CIB officials, the recently returned group comprises both confirmed victims coerced by criminal enterprises and possible accomplices, prompting further investigation to determine precise roles and culpability. ★