67 Indians rescued from cyber-scam syndicates in Laos

Vientiane

The Indian Embassy in Laos on Monday has successfully rescued 67 Indian nationals who were duped and trafficked into cyber-scam operations in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) in Bokeo Province, Laos.

These individuals were forced to work under intimidation and abuse by criminal syndicates operating in the GTSEZ.

Acting swiftly after receiving distress requests, Indian Embassy officials traveled to the GTSEZ and worked closely with Lao authorities to complete necessary procedures and paperwork. They facilitated the victims' transport to Vientiane, where the Embassy arranged food and accommodation.

Prashant Agrawal, India’s Ambassador to Laos, met with the rescued group to discuss their experiences, assure them of safety, and guide them on filing complaints against the agents responsible for their trafficking.

The Embassy is now collaborating with Lao authorities to finalize the victims' exit formalities, enabling their return to India. Agrawal also thanked the Lao government for their cooperation and urged action against criminal syndicates.

To date, the Indian Embassy in Laos has rescued 924 trafficked Indians, with 857 safely repatriated. Officials have issued a warning to Indian job seekers, advising caution against offers involving travel to Chiang Rai, Thailand, as it may lead to trafficking into GTSEZ.

The Embassy emphasized vigilance and encouraged individuals to refer to its advisory for protection against such scams or seek assistance in case of doubt.