Editorial | ‘Scam farm’ rescues rest on following the right path to freedom
Return of remaining Hong Kong residents held by fraudsters in countries bordering Thailand hinges on balancing operational needs and transparency
Human trafficking in Southeast Asia is back in the spotlight again following revelations that some Hongkongers have fallen for cross-border scams that force them to swindle money from others. While rescue attempts by local and overseas authorities have gradually paid off, more should be done to speed up such efforts.
Although a high-level government rescue mission to Thailand last month did not return with any of the 12 local people known to have been detained on so-called scam farms in Myanmar and Cambodia, two men and a woman have since reached safety.
The 31-year-old woman is the latest person to be rescued after the Hong Kong government stepped up cooperation with Thailand to find residents trapped in neighbouring countries. The operation in Myanmar was reportedly conducted by the Thai army and police, who had been alerted by the country’s counter-narcotics authorities that the woman, considered to be a victim of human trafficking, was attempting to cross the border into Thailand.
Such actions offer hope that more victims will be brought home eventually, but the frustration and anxiety of families and friends of those still in captivity can only be imagined. Many were reportedly worried when they did not receive messages from their loved ones during Lunar New Year celebrations as they had in the past. There also were demands for Hong Kong authorities to provide clear answers on their rescue plans.
The Post has called for well thought-out measures to rescue victims, including close cooperation with overseas authorities and decisive steps to bring them home unharmed as soon as possible. The government has so far remained reluctant to reveal operational details, such as the circumstances of individuals and whether ransoms would be or have been paid. However, it has warned against premature disclosure of any behind-the-scenes developments.
As with any kidnapping and criminal enforcement action, the disclosure of full details may not necessarily be in the best interests of those detained. It may even be counterproductive or harmful because operations could be compromised by media exposure.
