In a major rescue operation, the Indian government has successfully brought back 540 Indian nationals who were trapped in cybercrime activities in Southeast Asia. These individuals were deceived with fake job offers and forced into illegal online scams in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that 283 rescued Indians have already returned to India on an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft from Mae Sot, Thailand. The remaining 257 will be brought back on another flight today. Many of them were lured with promises of high-paying jobs but were instead forced to commit cyberfraud, mostly near the Myanmar-Thailand border.
According to officials, these victims were held against their will and forced to carry out fraudulent activities. Many were threatened with violence and had no way to escape. These scams are operated by organised crime groups in Southeast Asia, mainly in the Golden Triangle region, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet.
The Myanmar military played an important role in rescuing these Indians. After the rescue, Indian embassies in Myanmar and Thailand worked closely with local authorities to ensure their safe return. Thai officials also helped transfer the victims to Mae Sot, from where they were flown to India.
The Indian government has once again warned citizens to be careful while accepting job offers from abroad. The MEA advised Indians to verify the credentials of foreign employers through Indian embassies before taking up any overseas job. They also urged people to check the background of recruitment agencies to avoid falling into such traps.
Cybercrime networks in Southeast Asia have become a major problem, with many fake call centres exploiting workers. Law enforcement agencies are increasing efforts to shut down these criminal networks, but people must remain alert to avoid being tricked by fraudulent job offers.
This rescue operation highlights the dangers of job scams abroad and the importance of staying informed before accepting international job opportunities. The Indian government continues to work on protecting its citizens and ensuring their safe return.
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