EU Sanctions Southeast Asia Scam Centre Networks Over Human Trafficking and Human Rights Abuses
The European Union has imposed sanctions on seven individuals and three entities accused of operating scam centres in Southeast Asia linked to human trafficking, forced labour, torture, and large-scale online fraud targeting victims around the world.
Founder & Chief Editor · 30 July 2026 · 2 min read
By Osmara Digital Media
The European Union has imposed restrictive measures on seven individuals and three entities accused of serious human rights violations linked to the operation of scam centres in Southeast Asia, including allegations of human trafficking, torture, forced labour, and cruel treatment of victims.
According to a press release issued by the Council of the European Union on July 30, 2026, the sanctions target networks involved in running fraudulent online scam compounds where victims from different countries are allegedly trafficked, detained, and forced to participate in cryptocurrency scams and other criminal activities.
Among those sanctioned is the Prince Holding Group and its chairman Chen Zhi. The EU said the Cambodia-based conglomerate has been linked to the development of scam centre compounds in Cambodia and Myanmar through various front companies.
The EU stated that individuals trapped inside these compounds have reported cases of abuse, torture, kidnapping, and unlawful detention while being forced to conduct online fraud targeting people worldwide. The sanctions also target the Jin Bei Group, a Cambodia-based business involved in casino development and alleged scam centre operations, together with its chairman Zhu Zhongbiao.
Another organisation listed is the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), a Myanmar armed group accused by the EU of facilitating scam centres in Karen State, particularly around the Myawaddy area near the Myanmar–Thailand border.
The EU said the group has allowed criminal networks to operate under its protection and that some of its members have allegedly participated in violence against victims held inside scam compounds.
Under the new measures, all listed individuals and entities will face asset freezes, while EU citizens and companies are prohibited from providing funds or economic resources to them. The individuals are also subject to travel bans preventing entry into or transit through EU territories.
The Council of the European Union said the measures are part of broader efforts to address serious human rights abuses and disrupt organised criminal networks operating across borders.
Source: Council of the European Union Press Release, 30 July 2026.
Founder & Chief Editor
Founder and Chief Editor of Osmara Digital Media. Journalist and historian telling Africa's stories through an African lens, from West Nile to the continent.
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