BANGKOK — Thai and Chinese authorities have strengthened their alliance in combating international call center scams, following a high-level meeting between cyber crime officials from both countries.
The meeting, led by Acting Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiwphan and Chinese Minister Counselor Wu Zhiwu, outlined a comprehensive strategy focusing on regional cooperation, law enforcement, and technological development.
The discussion focused on five key points:
1. Root Causes of Scam Centers
The focus was on international cooperation, particularly between Thailand, China, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos, to effectively and sustainably tackle high-tech fraud centers. The aim is to achieve concrete and consistent results in tackling these problems.
2. Roles of Law Enforcement in Thailand
The Royal Thai Police has underlined its commitment to ensuring that no fraud centers operate in the country. Efforts to combat online crime have been consistent and have maintained Thailand’s positive image internationally. Thai authorities have responded to all complaints, dismantled fraud centers within the country and shared information with foreign authorities. They encouraged other nations to follow suit.
3. Exchanging Information on Offenders
The meeting emphasized the importance of sharing data on suspects and offenders across countries in order to increase efficiency in the fight against cross-border fraud.
4. Joint Training and Technology Development
Proposals have been made for the reciprocal use of advanced technologies, such as false base stations, to prevent their illegal use and protect the public from fraud.
5. Support legislation and enforcement
Emphasize the importance of joint law enforcement to extradite transnational criminals for prosecution, while fostering cooperation with other countries in the region.
“Thai police have demonstrated exceptional professionalism,” noted Wu Zhiwu, highlighting recent successes in cross-border cooperation. “Since February 2024, Thai-Myanmar collaboration has facilitated the extradition of 889 criminals to China.”
In a related development, the Thai Cabinet approved a new electronic data linkage system agreement with China’s Customs Department, aimed at streamlining cross-border trade processes. Thailand has established a dedicated task force to implement this system and develop efficient data-sharing protocols.
The initiative represents a significant step forward in bilateral cooperation between Thailand and China in addressing cybercrime while facilitating legitimate trade operations.
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