The Indian Embassy rescued 67 Indian nationals at the cyber-scam centers in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) in the Bokeo province, Laos. These victims had been trafficked under a ‘ job offer ‘ but were subjected to exploitation and abuse.
With the distress calls from the victims, the Indian Embassy immediately mobilized a team of officials to work with local authorities in Laos. With the cooperation from both parties, this helped the necessary paperwork and exit procedures facilitating evacuation of the victims from GTSEZ and transport to the Indian embassy in Vientiane, which is the capital of Laos.
Processing and Support Provided
Transportation and Care of Victims: The embassy provided transportation from Bokeo to Vientiane for the rescued people. The journey was made safe, and they were provided with accommodation and food at the embassy’s discretion.
The Ambassador Met Victims: Indian ambassador to Laos Prashant Agrawal met the 67 rescued persons. He ensured their complete safety and cooperation for them going back home. The embassy was focused on getting these persons safely returned to India with the present formality of their exit underway.
Cooperation with Lao authorities: It has thanked the Lao authorities for their cooperation and support extended during the rescue mission. The matter has been raised at the highest level, and further action is advocated against the criminal syndicates that traffic Indian nationals.
Warning to Indians: Risk of trafficking and exploitation
The embassy issued an important caution for Indian youth traveling to Thailand with promises of job opportunities. Many fall victim to trafficking, as once they cross into Laos, their passports are confiscated, and they are forced to sign exploitative contracts.
This has been passed by the Embassy in the form of warning so that future cases may not be encountered. People should remain careful and should not become victims of such fraud.
The Embassy further advises people looking to take employment abroad and is careful with proper verification of the job offered.
Earlier Cases of Rescues
It is part of the Indian Embassy’s ongoing efforts against human trafficking in that region. More than 900 Indian nationals have been rescued from such scams in Laos. So far, 857 of them have been repatriated to India safely.
This case highlights the ongoing threat of human trafficking and the importance of international cooperation in combating it. The Indian Embassy continues to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens abroad, and efforts will be made to address the trafficking syndicates operating in the region.