Hong Kong to Dispatch Task Force to Thailand Amid Resident Trapping Concerns
Hong Kong’s Security Bureau is sending a task force to Thailand to investigate cases of residents being trapped in Southeast Asia for illegal work. This follows the high-profile case of actor Wang Xing, who was held captive in Myanmar after being deceived by a false casting agent.
The Hong Kong Security Bureau has announced the deployment of a task force to Thailand, set to leave on Sunday afternoon. This move follows reports of local residents being deceived and subsequently trapped in Southeast Asian nations for illegal work. The urgency of this investigation is amplified by the recent situation involving mainland Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was reportedly held captive in Myanmar after being lured to Thailand for a fraudulent casting job.
In recent months, there has been a concerning rise in cases of Hong Kong residents who have been misled and trapped in Southeast Asia. Since the second quarter of 2024, the Security Bureau has recorded 28 such cases, with 16 individuals returning safely to Hong Kong. A total of 12 individuals have reported restrictions on their freedom of movement while maintaining communication with authorities. The case of Wang Xing highlights the risks associated with travel to the region under false pretenses, raising public alarm.
In summary, the Hong Kong government is taking proactive measures to address the alarming trend of residents being lured and trapped abroad. The efficacy of the task force’s deployment will be critical in resolving open cases and ensuring the safety of individuals who find themselves in such situations. The incident involving Wang Xing has underlined the need for vigilance when accepting offers from unfamiliar sources, especially in foreign countries.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
