According to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA), 119 Kenyans have already been safely brought home, following recent raids on scam compounds by Myanmar authorities and rebel groups. Efforts continue to assist the remaining nationals amid complex regional challenges.
“These compounds, located in remote border areas of Myanmar, lured Kenyans and others with false job promises. Many were trapped, working under harsh conditions, while some operators were protected by rebel groups,” the SDDA explained.
The raids, which began in September 2025, forced criminal elements to flee, leaving hundreds of foreign workers behind, including more than 200 Kenyans who sought shelter in military facilities in Myawaddy and Shwe Kokko, while others crossed into Thailand.
The government activated emergency response systems, linking families through WhatsApp groups, arranging travel, and issuing emergency travel documents for those without passports. Despite some initial resistance, most evacuees cooperated and were brought home safely.
Currently, 198 Kenyans remain stranded across the region: 66 in Thailand, 129 in Myanmar, and 3 in Cambodia. Authorities continue coordinating with local governments to ensure their safe return.
The SDDA also warned that many affected Kenyans initially entered Thailand on tourist visas, ignoring restrictions on employment, and some knowingly returned to scam operations despite previous government interventions.
“In future, the government advises that families of those knowingly involved in illegal activities should arrange their own travel. While we will continue supporting genuine victims of trafficking, indiscriminate rescues can create moral hazards and undermine safe migration policies,” the statement read.
The government stressed that anyone offered a tourist visa with promises of work should be cautious and report such agents to authorities immediately. Genuine victims continue to receive humanitarian aid and counseling through SDDA and partner agencies.
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs thanked families and international partners for their cooperation, ensuring the safe return of Kenyans caught in these illegal operations.
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