Thomas Daniels
In a significant operation, the Indian Embassy in Laos has successfully rescued 14 Indian youths from cyber-scam centers located in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Bokeo province. These individuals were lured to Laos with fraudulent job offers and subsequently held captive, forced to work under harsh conditions. This rescue is part of an ongoing effort, which has so far liberated 548 Indian nationals from similar crypto-related human trafficking scams.
The victims were enticed to travel to Laos with the promise of lucrative jobs. Dubious companies, operating call center scams and crypto fraud schemes, offered positions such as ‘digital sales and marketing executives’ or ‘customer support service.’ The recruitment process included interviews, typing tests, and promises of generous salaries, hotel accommodations, return flights, and visa assistance.
Upon arrival, these individuals were subjected to human trafficking and forced into grueling work conditions. Some were coerced into manual labor, while others were compelled to participate in crypto or tech-related fraud.
In a statement, the Embassy underscored its continuous collaboration with Lao authorities to ensure the safe return of these victims. It highlighted that recruits are often targeted by agents in Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore, and India, and then transported illegally from Thailand to Laos. The Embassy advised Indian nationals to thoroughly verify the credentials of recruiting agents and companies before accepting job offers in Laos. It also warned that employment on a ‘Visa on Arrival’ is illegal and that individuals convicted of human trafficking in Laos face sentences of up to 18 years.
Pig-Butchering Scams
Online scammers in Laos often exploit victims through crypto-related websites by making false promises. Pig-butchering scams involve fraudsters posing as potential love interests to gain their victims’ trust. Once trust is established, victims are convinced to make large investments in what appear to be lucrative schemes. The fraudsters apply continuous pressure on the victims to invest more money before disappearing with the funds.
