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In a dramatic development, Chinese actor Wang Xing has been rescued and is set to return to China with the assistance of Thai authorities. However, the story of his ordeal has unveiled a far-reaching scam network that has left many aspiring actors and entertainment workers trapped in northern Myanmar.
Wang Xing was lured to Thailand under the guise of a casting call by a man known as “Yan Shiliu.” Investigations have now revealed his real name to be Yan Moulei, a former stunt coordinator and small-time actor in Hengdian, China’s hub for film and TV productions. Yan, also known as Yan Junfeng in industry circles, is accused of using his insider knowledge to deceive his victims.
Yan reportedly began his career as a background actor in 2015 before transitioning to work as a stunt advisor and eventually dabbling in film production. Using his credentials and connections, he gained trust within the industry and targeted struggling actors, makeup artists, models, and lighting technicians, promising lucrative opportunities abroad. Many, including Wang Xing, were trafficked to northern Myanmar, where they were coerced into illegal activities or faced indefinite captivity.
Wang’s rescue has encouraged families of other missing entertainment workers to speak out, amplifying the search for victims. Yan’s recruitment tactics have been exposed, with reports confirming that he extensively posted job offers in actor forums and chat groups, preying on the desperation of those struggling to find work in the competitive Chinese entertainment industry.
“His casting choices were professional because he had worked in this field,” remarked a former colleague. Netizens have pointed out that Yan himself might have fallen victim to a similar scam before becoming complicit in the criminal network.
Adding to the breakthroughs, Thai police have dismantled the “Apollo Glory” company, a key player in the scam, and arrested its alleged mastermind, known as "Boss Jin," a suspect from Guangdong Province, China. The company is believed to have orchestrated numerous scams targeting Chinese nationals, funneling them into Myanmar-based operations.
Despite the rescue efforts, the situation remains grim for many. Among the missing is actor Yang Zeqi, who disappeared near the Thailand-Myanmar border in December 2024 under circumstances eerily similar to Wang’s. Yang’s relatives have confirmed his abduction, and his case has drawn parallels to other victims.
The scam targeting entertainment workers highlights systemic vulnerabilities within the industry. Many low-tier actors in Hengdian struggle to secure work, often going months without opportunities. Scammers like Yan exploit their ambition by offering seemingly legitimate overseas projects, complete with prepaid airfare.
“Their desperation to succeed blinds them to red flags,” commented an industry insider. “The promises sound too good to be true, but for those struggling, it’s a chance they feel they can’t pass up.”
Reports indicate that Yan arranged travel for multiple individuals who remain missing. The fraudulent scheme follows a predictable pattern: victims are invited to audition overseas and are then transported to scam hubs across northern Myanmar.
Authorities and advocates are urging the public to remain vigilant. “Even if Yan is caught, there will be others like him,” warned a commentator. “People must learn to recognize these scams and avoid falling prey to false promises.”
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