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Monday, January 13, 2025
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Lao Authorities Dismantle Nine Illegal Call Centers in the Golden Triangle SEZ

This Week

The Lao authorities have reported the successful dismantling of nine illegal call center fraud operations within Bokeo’s Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in 2024. 

The year-long crackdown led to the arrest of 267 individuals from 16 different nationalities and the seizure of thousands of pieces of equipment, including over 10,000 computers, 11,000 mobile phones, and significant amounts of cash. The call centers were primarily involved in fraudulent activities such as cyber scams and financial fraud. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat telecommunications fraud in the region.

In June, 280 Chinese nationals were deported for their involvement in illegal call center operations. In August, authorities rescued 14 Indian nationals from a cyber-scam ring, bringing the total number of Indian nationals rescued in 2024 to 548.

The confiscated equipment was part of a broader strategy to dismantle and disrupt fraudulent units operating in the SEZ, an area known for its high concentration of illicit activities.

At a meeting on 7 January, Vanthone Sulisak, Deputy Director General of the Police Department, presented an overview of the efforts between 2022 and 2024. Authorities identified 306 call centers or fraud units operating in the SEZ, employing 15,970 individuals—6,120 Lao nationals and 9,868 foreign workers. 

Over the past two years, police dismantled 63 of these units. An additional 46 units  ceased operations either through fraud or self-closure, while 160 units shifted to authorized online gaming activities. Despite these successes, 37 units remain under inspection, according to Vanthone.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Public Security reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with agencies at central, provincial, district, and regional levels. 

Plans for 2025 include the development of detailed strategies and action plans aimed at enhancing the efficiency of efforts to combat telecommunications fraud. The ministry also emphasized the importance of ensuring all operations comply with laws and regulations to maintain effective management and oversight within the SEZ.

 

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