Rescue operation saves 60 Indians from cyber fraud in Cambodia, set to return home
Following a protest by approximately 150 Indians in Cambodia, demanding the return of their passports from their handlers to facilitate their return home.
Around 100-150 Indian citizens, primarily from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, fell victim to a cyber fraud in Cambodia. Lured by the promise of data entry jobs in Singapore, they were trafficked and forced to commit cybercrimes against Indians.
The trapped individuals staged a large protest to expose the scam perpetrated by Chinese nationals. This incident highlights the dangers of fraudulent job offers targeting Indian citizens seeking employment abroad.
The Indian Embassy in Cambodia, upon learning of the situation, intervened swiftly. They successfully rescued 60 Indian nationals who were victims of the fraudulent employment scheme. The embassy facilitated their safe passage from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh and is assisting them with travel documents and necessary arrangements for their return to India.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an advisory urging Indian citizens to exercise caution when seeking employment in Laos and Cambodia. The advisory specifically warns against attractive job packages offered by suspicious companies, particularly in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos.
Exposing Cyber Fraud in Cambodia:
The advisory details the tactics used by these fraudulent companies. They often lure victims through agents operating in India and other locations like Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore. The recruitment process appears straightforward, involving basic interviews and typing tests. However, these companies deceive potential employees with promises of high salaries, comfortable accommodations, and assistance with visas and travel.
Once recruited, the victims are often held captive by criminal organizations and forced to work in harsh conditions. They are subjected to physical and mental pressure to perform illegal activities like cybercrime.
The MEA emphasizes the importance of verifying job offers meticulously. Indian citizens considering employment opportunities abroad are advised to utilize the services of authorized agents approved by the Ministry. Furthermore, visas obtained upon arrival in Thailand or Laos do not permit employment, and work permits for Laos are not issued to Indian nationals on such visas.
The MEA encourages Indian citizens to be wary of “fraudulent or exploitative job offers.” They advise individuals to thoroughly verify details of any opportunities and to reach out to the Indian Embassy for assistance or clarification.
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