Cambodian, Thai authorities to investigate Poipet casino call center gang case

An extensive investigation into a case involving Thai citizens who allege to be victims of a contact center gang operating out of a casino in Poipet, Cambodia, is being undertaken by the police chief of the province of Banteay Meanchey, who has expressed his willingness to collaborate with Thai authorities.

This happened after nine Thai nationals were saved by Thai police close to the border crossing. The emancipated persons stated that they were coerced into working for a call center gang headquartered at the Pu Li Casino despite having been promised jobs there. The organization allegedly utilized violence and threats against anyone who declined to take part in scam calls. The victims also reported seeing additional people shot and killed by the group.

Although the Pu Li Casino’s location and existence have been proven, there is no proof that the casino was involved in a reported fire. Around 200 more Thais were reportedly being held captive in the casino, according to Assawin Saothong, the commander of a ranger company overseeing the Ban Klong Luek border checkpoint area. The group informed the police of this information.

Following their minor injuries sustained during the rescue effort, the nine Thai individuals who were saved are presently undergoing medical attention at a hospital. In order to enable additional action, Thai police plan to get in touch with their Cambodian counterparts.

Major General Sith Los, the chief of Banteay Meanchey Provincial Police, took prompt action upon learning about the problem and ordered the anti-human trafficking division to work with Thai counterparts to conduct a comprehensive investigation. The emergency conference was organized by Banteay Meanchey Police to discuss this scenario, which is critical for both countries.

Human trafficking incidents have increased in Cambodia in recent years, and these cases usually include work scams. Criminal syndicates rely heavily on modern technology and operate in a range of sectors, such as border areas and special economic zones. In spite of continuous enforcement efforts, collaboration with foreign governments—like Thailand—is essential to stopping human trafficking and catching those who engage in it.

The vice chairwoman of the National Committee for Counter Trafficking, Chou Bun Eng, stressed the value of international cooperation among all participating nations and the challenges in preventing these crimes because of the adaptability of offenders and their reliance on advanced technology.

Original story by: Khmer Times