From dream job to nightmare: The harrowing reality of forced labour in scam compounds
- Yuki Kimura
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
On the border between Myanmar and Thailand, a clandestine and nefarious industry has emerged, posing significant challenges to sustainable development and the attainment of global goals. These so-called "scam compounds" are forced labour camps where thousands are coerced into executing large-scale digital fraud operations. Victims, enticed by fraudulent job offers, find themselves ensnared in heavily guarded facilities, compelled to perpetrate online scams under threats of torture and death. This burgeoning crisis, orchestrated by organised crime networks, generates billions in illicit revenue, undermining efforts towards economic equality, social justice, and peaceful societies.
The deception: From fake job offers to human trafficking
The exploitation commences with alluring job advertisements on social media and employment platforms, seeking candidates for "technology positions" in Asia with promises of lucrative salaries and favourable working conditions. Upon acceptance, individuals are transported to the Myanmar-Thailand border, where their passports are confiscated, and they are coerced into conducting online scams.
Victims hail from diverse nations, including China, India, the Philippines, and various Southeast Asian countries. Confined within compounds fortified by armed guards, they are isolated from the external world. Attempts to escape are met with severe punishments, such as beatings, electric shocks, or even being sold to other criminal factions.
The lucrative business of digital fraud
Within these scam compounds, detainees operate extensive fraud schemes via social media, messaging applications, and dating websites. Common tactics encompass:
· Romance scams ("pig butchering"): Perpetrators cultivate fictitious romantic relationships with foreign victims, persuading them to invest in fraudulent financial ventures.
· Fake cryptocurrency investments: Victims are enticed with promises of substantial returns on non-existent investment platforms, funneling funds directly to criminal enterprises.
· Identity theft and banking fraud: Scammers impersonate financial officials to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting individuals.
The financial impact is staggering. Conservative estimates indicate that these operations amassed close to $64 billion in 2023 alone, with proceeds laundered through international banking systems and cryptocurrencies.
Complicity and corruption: Aiding the criminal enterprise
The persistence of these operations is facilitated by the complicity of armed groups and corrupt officials in Myanmar. Certain regions housing these scam compounds are under the control of local militias, who permit such illicit activities in exchange for bribes. The ongoing civil unrest in Myanmar has further created a conducive environment for these illegal enterprises to operate with impunity.
International pressure has prompted some rescue missions in the area. In February 2025, approximately 7,000 individuals were liberated from illegal call centres in Myanmar, awaiting transfer to Thailand as part of intensified efforts to dismantle scam operations along the border.
Survivors' accounts: Enduring the horrors of scam compounds
Survivors have recounted harrowing experiences within these scam centres. One Ethiopian survivor described enduring up to 20-hour workdays, with strict financial quotas to meet. Failure to achieve targets resulted in physical abuse or food deprivation. Another recounted punishments involving electric shocks, severe physical and psychological abuse, and even instances of murder.
Global collaboration: Addressing a transnational crisis
The transnational nature of these crimes necessitates a coordinated global response. Governments in the region, including Thailand and China, have initiated collaborative efforts to combat these networks. In early 2025, China commenced the repatriation of over 1,000 nationals rescued from scam centres in Myanmar, reflecting a concerted effort to address the crisis.
However, challenges persist. The porous borders, ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar, and systemic corruption complicate eradication efforts. Human rights organisations advocate for increased pressure on regional governments and the formulation of a global strategy to combat human trafficking and digital fraud.
The proliferation of scam compounds along the Myanmar-Thailand border represents a significant impediment to achieving sustainable development goals, particularly those related to justice and strong institutions, economic equality, and peaceful societies. Addressing this complex issue demands sustained global collaboration, robust law enforcement, and unwavering commitment to human rights. Only through unified and persistent efforts can the international community hope to dismantle these criminal networks and restore dignity to the countless individuals affected.
Who is supporting ?
Several international organisations and human rights groups are actively working to assist victims of these scam compounds and combat human trafficking in the region. NGOs such as International Justice Mission (IJM) and Anti-Slavery International provide legal aid, shelter, and rehabilitation services to survivors. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) collaborates with regional governments to strengthen anti-trafficking laws and dismantle criminal networks. Meanwhile, local organisations in Thailand and Myanmar, such as the Mekong Club and Human Rights Watch Asia, document human rights abuses, advocate for policy changes, and facilitate rescue operations. In recent months, coordinated efforts between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and government agencies have led to the repatriation of thousands of victims, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives free from exploitation.
Sources and related information: