By John Kariuki
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has confirmed that 64 Kenyans rescued from scam compounds in Myanmar are currently stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border, awaiting clearance to cross into Thailand for repatriation.
According to the Ministry, these Kenyans are part of a larger group of over 7,000 foreign nationals rescued by armed groups—the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the Border Guard Force (BGF)—who are still awaiting safe passage due to the continued closure of the border by Thai authorities. The border has remained shut since February 12, 2025, following the repatriation of an initial group of 260 foreigners, including 23 Kenyans.
The Kenyan Ambassador in Thailand has been in constant communication with the stranded Kenyans, assuring them of ongoing efforts by the Kenyan government to secure their safe return. The government is currently in consultation with Thai authorities to have the border reopened on humanitarian grounds, enabling the rescued individuals to enter Thailand and proceed with their repatriation to Kenya.
Reports indicate that the rescued foreigners are currently being held in makeshift military camps in Karen State, Myanmar. The conditions in these camps remain harsh and inhumane, with victims facing limited access to clean water, food, medical care, and sanitation facilities. Many of the affected individuals come from over 30 different nationalities, some as far as South America.
A multi-agency team, led by the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, in collaboration with the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok and HAART Kenya, has finalized logistical arrangements to bring the Kenyans home once border crossing is allowed.
The Kenyan government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad, as demonstrated in previous rescue efforts in Libya, South Sudan, Sudan, Lebanon, Myanmar, Israel, and other conflict-prone regions.
In light of the growing number of Kenyans falling victim to human trafficking through fake job offers, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has urged citizens to verify any overseas employment opportunities with the State Department for Diaspora Affairs before making travel arrangements. Kenyans are advised to only use government-registered and licensed recruitment agencies, which can be verified through the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection's official website .
As efforts to negotiate with Thai authorities continue, the Kenyan government is also exploring alternative routes to ensure the safe return of its stranded citizens. Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.