Hong Kong resident rescued from Myanmar returns to Hong Kong

The Security Bureau (SB) announced on Tuesday that a Hong Kong resident, who had been detained in Myanmar for illegal work, has safely returned to Hong Kong. The individual arrived from Thailand on Monday night, accompanied by members of the SB's dedicated task force.

The task force traveled to Bangkok on January 21 to expedite the case after confirming the Hong Kong resident's rescue in Myanmar and subsequent arrival in Thailand. Through effective coordination and liaison with various units, and the concerted efforts of multiple parties, the task force facilitated the individual's swift return to Hong Kong, allowing for a reunion with his family before the Chinese New Year.

The task force expressed gratitude to the Thai authorities for their humane handling of the case, noting that special arrangements were made to expedite the procedures, enabling the Hong Kong resident's quick return.

During a visit to the detention center in Bangkok, task force members were moved by the opportunity to bring the individual back to Hong Kong.

The rescued resident expressed his appreciation for the task force's efforts and was pleased to be able to reunite with his family in time for Chinese New Year.

The SB extended thanks to various entities, including the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Chinese Embassies in Myanmar and Thailand, the Consulate General of China in Chiang Mai, the Consulate-General of Myanmar in Hong Kong, and the relevant Thai authorities for their support and assistance.

The task force continues to proactively follow up on the remaining 10 request-for-assistance cases involving Hong Kong residents still abroad. This includes maintaining communication, exchanging intelligence, and collaborating closely with the Director of Special Investigation and the Director of Human Trafficking under the Ministry of Justice of Thailand.

Details of the operation remain confidential to avoid jeopardizing ongoing communications with Thai authorities and increasing the risk to Hong Kong residents.

The authorities are still investigating the circumstances of the victim's detention. The police plan to meet with him to gather more information, which will aid in their future efforts.

Additionally, a member of the dedicated task force will remain in Bangkok to continue working towards the early return of the remaining 10 individuals to Hong Kong