Over 270 detainees attempt escape from Myanmar detention center fearing return to forced labor

In Myanmar, over 270 men and women who had previously been rescued from forced labor in scam compounds made a desperate attempt for freedom. This incident occurred on a Sunday, two months after they were initially freed from captivity. Although these individuals were liberated from a terrifying life where they faced beatings and torture, they remained in detention, living under poor conditions without clarity on their future. Many of them were from Ethiopia and other African countries, and had been waiting for repatriation to their home countries since their rescue. As the weeks dragged on, anxiety grew among the detainees, particularly when they overheard guards discussing the possibility of sending them back to the very compounds they had escaped from. The fear of a brutal return sparked the escape attempt, with some individuals expressing a willingness to take their own lives rather than return to such horrific circumstances. They aimed to reach a river that marked the border with Thailand, hoping to reach safety. The individuals walked out of the compound, carrying their personal belongings as they made their way towards the river. However, their escape was disrupted by calls from the soldiers guarding them, who offered discussions about their plight. The return to discussions prompted confusion and uncertainty among the group, leading them to reconsider their escape and ultimately stop their move toward freedom. In light of their escape attempt, Thai and Myanmar governments have come under scrutiny regarding the treatment of trafficked and detained individuals. Efforts have been made by non-profit organizations at the border to support the repatriation of these detainees. The organizations are fundraising to assist these individuals in returning home, while pressure from neighboring countries highlights the urgent need for a resolution. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thailand acknowledged awareness of the escape attempt and committed to adding the names of the detainees to the official list for repatriation.