67 Indians Rescued from Cyber Scam Operations in Laos
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Synopsis
The Embassy of India in Laos successfully rescued 67 Indian youths from cyber-scam centers in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone. Victims were coerced into labor by criminal syndicates. The Embassy is facilitating their return to India and advising others to avoid similar traps.
Key Takeaways
- 67 Indian youths rescued from trafficking.
- Victims coerced into working in cyber-scam centers.
- Embassy responded quickly to rescue requests.
- Full support provided for safe return to India.
- Job seekers warned about trafficking risks.
Vientiane, Jan 27 (NationPress) The Indian Embassy in Laos declared on Monday that it has successfully rescued 67 Indian youths who had fallen victim to deception and human trafficking into cyber-scam operations located in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) in Bokeo Province of this Southeast Asian nation.
These individuals were compelled to labor under threats and mistreatment from criminal organizations operating within GTSEZ.
"Upon receiving urgent pleas for assistance, Embassy personnel acted swiftly to provide all necessary support. A dedicated team of officials immediately traveled to GTSEZ, collaborating closely with relevant Lao authorities to fulfill required procedures and documentation, allowing them to leave GTSEZ and reach the Embassy in Vientiane. Their transportation from Bokeo to Vientiane was also organized. The Embassy made provisions for their lodging and meals as needed," stated the Indian Embassy in Laos.
Ambassador Prashant Agrawal met with the rescued individuals, addressing their challenges while assuring them of the Embassy's unwavering support and commitment to their safe return to India as a top priority.
He also provided guidance regarding the next steps, including the importance of filing complaints against the agents who had deceived them.
Officials at the Embassy in Vientiane are actively coordinating with Lao authorities to finalize the exit formalities for the rescued Indians, after which they will be able to return home shortly.
"We express gratitude to the Lao authorities for their collaboration. We have also requested measures against dubious individuals, raising the issue at the highest levels," the Indian Embassy stated on Monday.
To date, the Indian Embassy has rescued 924 Indians, with 857 already returned safely to India.
"Indian youths who may have been promised employment in Thailand but are instructed to travel by road to Chiang Rai, near the Thai-Lao border, should be cautious, as this is a clear sign of potential trafficking to GTSEZ in Lao PDR. Upon arrival in GTSEZ, their passports may be confiscated by criminal syndicates, and they may be coerced into signing a so-called 'work contract' in a foreign language, which exposes them to exploitation," warned officials from the Indian Embassy.
They urged job seekers to refer to the detailed advisory available on the Embassy's website to avoid falling victim to scams or to contact the Embassy if they have any doubts.
