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Detained Hong Kong Resident Returns from Myanmar

HK detainee returns home

A Hong Kong resident has safely returned home from Myanmar after allegedly being detained, marking the latest success in the city’s efforts to rescue citizens trapped in Southeast Asian scam operations.

The individual arrived in Hong Kong Thursday through Thailand with support from the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Bangkok and Thai authorities, the Security Bureau reported.

The case adds to growing concerns about Hong Kong residents being lured to Southeast Asian countries and forced into illegal work. Since the beginning of 2024, authorities have received 28 requests for assistance from citizens reporting detention in Southeast Asian nations.

Including today’s rescue, 17 individuals have been successfully repatriated. The remaining 11 cases involve people whose movements are restricted but maintain contact with their families or authorities, officials said.

Security Secretary Tang Ping-keung met with Thai Consul-General Chaturont Chaiyakam to express gratitude for Thailand’s high-level involvement in addressing these cases. The meeting focused on strategies to expedite the safe return of remaining Hong Kong residents seeking assistance.

A dedicated task force is investigating the case of the latest returnee, who is receiving support from the Security Bureau.

The trend of Southeast Asian scam operations targeting Hong Kong citizens has prompted increased cooperation between regional authorities to combat such activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
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