Over 7,000 foreigners, including 64 Kenyans, are stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after being rescued from scams. The Kenyan government is negotiating with Thai authorities for their safe repatriation. The rescued individuals face dire conditions in military camps, and officials are exploring various options to bring them home. Citizens are advised to verify job offers and use licensed recruitment agencies when seeking overseas employment.
Sixty-four Kenyans are among over 7,000 foreigners presently stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after being rescued from various scam operations. They are currently located in makeshift military camps in Myanmar’s Karen State, where they await the necessary clearance to cross into Thailand for repatriation.
The Kenyan government has commenced discussions with Thai authorities to facilitate border reopening on humanitarian grounds, ensuring the safe return of its citizens. The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs confirmed that these Kenyans were freed by two armed groups—namely, the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the Border Guard Force (BGF).
The conditions in the temporary military camps remain critical, with insufficient access to medical facilities, clean water, electricity, and sanitation. The Kenyan Government is also investigating alternative routes for the repatriation of its citizens. In the interim, the Kenyan Ambassador to Thailand maintains daily communication with the stranded individuals as efforts intensify for their safe return.
A multi-agency task force, under the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, has finalized logistical arrangements for their repatriation, contingent upon receipt of approval for border access. The government has accordingly advised Kenyans to exercise vigilance when seeking overseas employment opportunities, emphasizing the importance of confirming job offers with the State Department and utilizing only licensed recruitment agencies as listed on the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection’s website.
In summary, 64 Kenyans are among thousands stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after fleeing scam operations. The Kenyan government is actively working with Thai officials to facilitate a safe return and has urged citizens to take precautions when seeking employment abroad. The situation in the camps remains dire, prompting further collaborative efforts for their quick repatriation.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
