Government issues fresh update on repatriation of Kenyans from Myanmar
State Department for Diaspora Affairs has issued an update on the ongoing repatriation of Kenyan nationals rescued from illegal scam operations in Myanmar.
The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has issued an update on the ongoing repatriation of Kenyan nationals rescued from illegal scam operations in Myanmar.
In a statement on Monday, December 22, the department confirmed the number of Kenyans already brought back home and explained that efforts are still ongoing amid difficult regional dynamics in Myanmar.
“The State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) provides this update on the ongoing repatriation of Kenyan nationals rescued from the illegal scam compounds in Myanmar. 119 Kenyans have been successfully repatriated, following recent raids by Myanmar authorities and rebel groups, with efforts continuing for the remaining Kenyans amid complex regional dynamics,” the statement read.
The department then explained how international criminal syndicates set up scam compounds in remote parts of Myanmar, recruiting Kenyans and other foreigners under false pretences.
“Criminal syndicates established scam compounds in remote border regions in Karen State, Myanmar, near the international border with Thailand. These hubs have perpetrated online fraud, recruiting workers globally, including Kenyans, often under false job promises. Protected variably by rebel groups, the compounds became flashpoints,” the statement added.
Authorities went on to describe how Myanmar’s crackdown on these operations escalated into violence involving multiple armed groups.
“In September 2025, the Myanmar Government raided the scam compounds involving arrests, seizures, bombings, and demolitions. The raid caused conflict between the Government and the rebel groups, and between the various rebel factions,” the statement continued.
The government stated that the raids forced criminal operators to flee, leaving behind hundreds of foreign workers, including a large number of Kenyans.
“In response to the raids, the criminal elements operating the camps fled, abandoning workers-including over 200 Kenyans who sought refuge in military shelters in Myawaddy and Shwe Kokko, while another group of over 100 Kenyans crossed over to Thailand,” the statement further read.
Following the emergence of affected Kenyans, the department explained how it immediately activated its response mechanisms through its diaspora structures and diplomatic missions.
It also detailed the practical steps taken to coordinate families, travel arrangements, and documentation to facilitate the return of most evacuees.
Police lob tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters marching to State House
Two children assaulted for allegedly stealing Chama money meant for Christmas
I maintain General Francis Ogolla was taken out – Kalonzo
Controller of Budget flags Nairobi County’s expenditure on salaries and allowances
“The Government of Kenya, through SDDA and the Kenya Embassy in Bangkok, swiftly activated these measures upon receiving an initial list of 126 Kenyans.
“Created WhatsApp groups linking next-of-kin for real-time updates and ticket procurement coordination, enabling the repatriation of 119 individuals. However, 7 Kenyans remain, pending rebooking after last-minute cancellations: negotiated group discounted fares with Kenya Airways, easing financial burdens for families; and issued Emergency Travel Documents for those without passports,” the statement explained.
The government further outlined the logistical, security, and welfare measures put in place during transit and upon arrival in Kenya.
An update was also provided on Kenyans who remain stranded across different locations in the region.
“Coordinated with Thai authorities for safe passage via the Thai-Myanmar 2nd Friendship Bridge, covering logistics to the Airport, including transport. SDDA funded these logistics; upon arrival in Kenya, evacuees are interviewed by the Directorate Of Criminal Investigations’ Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) to pursue syndicate prosecutions, and SDDA’s counselling unit, in partnership with other stakeholders, provides psychosocial support for those in need, including their families.
“Currently, 198 Kenyans await repatriation: 66 in Thailand’s IDC and 129 in Myanmar shelters. The Embassy is also in touch with 3 Kenyans in the Aritas Catholic safe house in Cambodia,” the statement indicated.
The department also highlighted resistance encountered from some Kenyans in military shelters, which delayed progress.
“Notably, 86 Kenyans in military shelters initially refused cooperation-demanding government-funded tickets and spreading falsehoods on social media, but shared next-of-kin details on December 19, 2025,” the statement noted.
In its assessment, the government identified troubling trends regarding how many of those affected initially travelled to the region.
Government announces new measures to regulate viagra sales after exposé
Veteran radio presenter is dead
Government approves Safaricom and Airtel Money as intermediary service platform providers
Luo elders reject Ruto’s nuclear plant project in Siaya
Follow us
