Thailand Supports Myanmar Power Cuts to Fight Scammers
A recent National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) survey reveals overwhelming Thai public support for the government’s drastic measures to combat call-center scams operating in Myanmar. These measures—cutting electricity, internet access, and fuel supplies to suspected scam hubs—have garnered significant approval.
The February 10–11 poll surveyed 1,310 individuals aged 18 and over, representing diverse educational backgrounds and occupations nationwide. Results reveal strong public sentiment regarding the escalating scam crisis and perceived official complicity.
A resounding 70.54% of respondents completely agreed with the government’s cross-border intervention. An additional 21.07% partially agreed, leaving only a small minority dissenting. This decisive support underscores widespread frustration and anger among Thais affected by these criminal operations.
While public support for the government’s actions is strong, confidence in their efficacy is less certain. While 60.92% believe the measures will impact scam networks, only 17.71% expressed strong confidence in their effectiveness. A concerning 15.95% feel the measures will achieve very little, highlighting potential skepticism about their long-term impact.
Adding complexity is widespread suspicion surrounding Thai official involvement. A staggering 69.85% of respondents believe Thai officials are actively aiding scammers, with only 3.28% rejecting this notion. The remaining 26.87% remain uncertain, indicating significant erosion of public trust in the authorities' ability to effectively address the problem.
The poll also explored public perception of call center workers. Interestingly, almost half (49.77%) believe there’s an equal split between coerced and willing participants. While 25.80% believe most are voluntary participants, a substantial 20.38% believe most are victims of deception, lured by false promises of lucrative employment. This nuanced perspective highlights the issue’s complexity and the vulnerability of individuals to these criminal organizations.
The recent publication, in conjunction with the poll, of images depicting rescued foreigners being ferried across the Moei River back into Thailand serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of these scams. It underscores the urgency of addressing the crisis and the importance of international collaboration to effectively combat these transnational criminal networks.
The NIDA Poll results demonstrate strong public support for the government’s Myanmar intervention but also expose deeper concerns about the measures' effectiveness and potential Thai official involvement. The poll highlights the need for a multifaceted approach addressing not only the immediate disruption of scam operations but also the underlying factors enabling them to flourish, including corruption and the vulnerability of those seeking employment abroad. This complex situation demands sustained effort and cross-border cooperation to effectively dismantle these criminal networks and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
