Over 100 Chinese scam suspects riot at Thai detention centre, demanding return to China
The report says more than 100 Chinese scam suspects rioted at a temporary immigration detention centre in Mae Sot early yesterday, demanding repatriation. Police used water cannon; two people were injured in fights.
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A large riot broke out early yesterday at a temporary immigration detention centre in Mae Sot district, Tak province, Thailand, according to the report. More than 100 detained Chinese nationals suspected of telecom fraud lost control as a group, shouted “Let us return to China”, smashed public facilities, damaged surveillance equipment and tried to force their way out through doors. Police urgently deployed riot-control units, two fire engines and a loudspeaker vehicle to cordon off the building and repeatedly issue warnings in Chinese. The suspects refused to cooperate, and police ultimately used high-pressure water cannon to disperse them and restore order.
An inspection afterwards found that two suspects had been injured in fights with one another. Police arranged immediate medical care, and the injuries were not life-threatening. The report said recent large-scale Myanmar military operations against Chinese-funded scam compounds in Myawaddy had prompted many people allegedly involved in scams to try to cross into Thailand. Thai police were holding those arrested at three locations, but the sharp increase in numbers had pushed detention capacity close to its limit.
Thai authorities said they were providing basic assistance in line with international human-rights standards while pursuing legal proceedings. According to the report’s account of the rules, suspects must complete the relevant proceedings in Thailand before repatriation can be arranged through diplomatic channels, significantly lengthening the process. Police have strengthened security to prevent further incidents.
Compiled by this station
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