Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone in July and took up the issue
In a recent operation, the Indian Embassy in Laos successfully rescued 14 Indian youths from cyber-scam operations within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This brings the total number of Indian youths rescued from similar predicaments to 548. The Embassy is working closely with Laotian authorities to ensure their safe return to India.
 
In a post on X on Wednesday (August 8, 2024), the Indian Embassy in Laos announced, “Embassy rescues 14 more Indian youth from cyber-scam centres in Golden Triangle SEZ. Our officials work tirelessly and closely with Lao authorities to ensure their safe return to India. 548 Indian youth rescued so far.”
 
Indian Embassy Issues Advisory on Job Scams in Laos
In light of the recurring incidents, the embassy has issued a strong advisory to Indian nationals, warning them against accepting job offers in Laos that might lead them into cyber-scam activities. The advisory, shared on X, cautioned, “Indian youth advised NOT to put themselves at risk regarding any job offers in Lao PDR/ Laos which may be luring and forcing them into committing cyber-scams. Do read and follow the enclosed Advisory carefully.”
 
The embassy's advisory highlighted the modus operandi of these fraudulent job offers. Dubious companies engaged in call-centre scams and cryptocurrency fraud within the Golden Triangle SEZ are luring Indian nationals with roles such as 'Digital Sales and Marketing Executives' or 'Customer Support Service.' Agents of these firms in places such as Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore, and India conduct simple interviews and typing tests, offering high salaries, hotel accommodations, return air tickets, and visa facilitation to attract victims.
 
“Victims are being illegally taken across the border into Laos from Thailand and held captive to work in the Golden Triangle SEZ in Laos under harsh and restrictive conditions. At times, they are taken hostage by criminal syndicates indulging in illegal activities and forced to work in strenuous conditions under constant physical and mental torture,” the embassy said.
 
In addition to cyber-scam operations, the embassy highlighted that some Indians have been brought to work in other regions of Laos in low-paying jobs such as mining and wood factory work, where they are exploited and endangered by their handlers. “A number of Indians have been rescued under very difficult conditions,” the advisory noted.
 
The embassy pointed out that visas on arrival in Thailand or Laos do not permit employment, and Lao authorities do not issue work permits to Indian nationals traveling on such visas. Tourist visas should be used solely for tourism purposes.
 
The Indian Embassy’s advisory also highlighted that those convicted of human trafficking crimes have been sentenced up to 18 years in prison in Laos.
 
On July 27, 2024, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called on Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on the sidelines of the ASEAN Ministerials and addressed the issue of Indian nationals being trafficked through cyber-scam centres. He also discussed the matter with the foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand.
 
The successful rescue of the 14 Indian youths is a result of coordinated efforts between the Indian Embassy in Laos and Laotian authorities. The embassy's proactive approach and close collaboration with local authorities have been crucial in these operations. By working tirelessly and maintaining open lines of communication, they have managed to bring these individuals back to safety.
 
The embassy's advisory serves as a crucial reminder for Indian nationals to remain vigilant and cautious about job offers abroad, particularly in regions known for cyber-scam activities. The allure of high salaries and attractive benefits can often mask the grim reality of exploitation and abuse.
 
Indian nationals are urged to thoroughly verify the legitimacy of job offers and consult with the embassy or other relevant authorities before accepting any overseas employment opportunities. The embassy's advisory emphasizes the importance of being informed and cautious to avoid falling prey to such scams.
 
The Indian Embassy in Laos said it remains committed to rescuing Indian nationals trapped in such dire situations. With 548 individuals already rescued, the embassy continues to monitor and respond to reports of fraudulent job offers and illegal activities targeting Indian youth.
 
The embassy's efforts highlight the importance of international cooperation in combating human trafficking and cyber scams. By working together with Laotian authorities and other stakeholders, the embassy aims to protect Indian nationals and ensure their safe return home.