The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has reported that 64 Kenyans are currently stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after being rescued from a fraudulent operation.
These individuals are among over 7,000 foreigners who were freed by two armed groups, the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the Border Guard Force (BGF).
The Ministry has confirmed that efforts are underway to secure their safe passage into Thailand and eventually bring them back home.The border closure on February 12 affected a first group of 260 foreigners, including 23 Kenyans.
Now, this second group of 64 Kenyans is waiting for Thai authorities to reopen the border so they can leave the difficult conditions they are currently facing. The Ministry stated that the Kenyan government has contacted Thai officials to facilitate their movement and ensure their safety.
The rescued Kenyans are currently housed in makeshift military camps in Karen State, where conditions are reported to be extremely poor.
There is limited access to medical care, clean water, electricity, and proper sanitation, making the situation even more urgent. The Ministry acknowledged these challenges and assured that they are actively working on solutions to bring the affected Kenyans back to the country.
To handle the repatriation process, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs is working closely with the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok and Awareness Against Human Trafficking (HAART) Kenya.
The Ministry has confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the return of the stranded Kenyans so they can reunite with their families.
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to rescuing and protecting Kenyan citizens who find themselves in such situations, both in Myanmar and other parts of the world.
Rescue operations have been conducted in several countries, including Libya, South Sudan, Lebanon, and Israel, among others.
The government has emphasized that it will continue working to safeguard the rights and well-being of Kenyans living and working abroad. In light of this situation, the Ministry is urging Kenyans to be cautious when seeking job opportunities outside the country.
They have advised citizens to verify any job offers posted online through the State Department for Diaspora Affairs to avoid falling victim to human trafficking or fraudulent schemes.
Additionally, the Ministry is reminding Kenyans to only use private recruitment agencies that are registered and licensed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
This measure is meant to protect job seekers from exploitation and ensure that they secure genuine employment opportunities. The government is encouraging Kenyans to take these precautions seriously to prevent further cases of citizens being trapped in foreign countries under dangerous conditions.
