Director’s Statement

In 2023, reports exposing the grim realities of scam hubs in Myanmar went viral online. These hubs, often run by Chinese criminal networks, became the target of a crackdown in the Kokang region after pressure from Beijing. Yet, by 2024, China's stance softened, seemingly to maintain stability in Myanmar's military regime. Notably, China’s efforts appeared focused on protecting its own citizens, leaving scams targeting Europe, North America, and South America largely unchecked.

This documentary follows Ze, a private rescuer who operates within this murky and dangerous landscape. I first connected with him on Red Book, sending a simple message with invitation of participating in a documentary on Southeast Asia scam hub rescues. His prompt and transparent response stood out. Meeting him in person was equally surprising—he and his friends, driving a Porsche, resembled well-paid tech professionals rather than individuals navigating armed conflicts, criminal networks, and harrowing human stories.

Ze introduced us to a world of chaos: the heartbreaking tales of those trapped in scam hubs, the criminal underpinnings of these operations, and the profound impact on victims and their families. The experience was overwhelming—the cinematographer even had nightmares after the first day of filming. Over the course of shooting, Ze demonstrated his dedication to rescuing victims, often working tirelessly to reunite them with their families. His commitment was palpable, yet so were his ethical dilemmas. He questioned whether profiting from these rescues was morally right and worried about being labeled a criminal himself.

This story also reveals systemic failures. Many parents turned to Ze after being dismissed by police, who often cited jurisdictional limits. Yet, the police played a controversial role—acting as witnesses for contracts between Ze and the families, and in some cases accepting money. Ironically, corruption was evident not only in China but also in Myanmar and Cambodia, significantly influencing and even facilitating the rescue process.

Behind the rescues lies a complex web of civil war, human rights violations, organized crime, and the devastating toll of scams. This documentary aims to shed light on these interconnected issues, revealing the human cost and moral ambiguities within an underexplored crisis.