over-280-indians-lured-into-illegal-jobs-in-myanmar-rescued

India has successfully secured the release and repatriation of 283 Indian nationals from Myanmar. The government carried out the effort on Monday as part of a diplomatic and humanitarian mission.

 

These individuals were tricked into travelling to Southeast Asian countries, including Myanmar, with fake job offers. Once there, they were forced into cybercrime and other illegal activities at scam centres near the Myanmar-Thailand border.

 

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Indian embassies in Myanmar and Thailand worked closely with local authorities to ensure their safe return. A special Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft was sent to bring them back from Mae Sot, Thailand.

 

The MEA has repeatedly warned against such fraudulent job offers. In a statement, the Ministry urged Indian citizens to verify foreign employers through Indian embassies. It also advised checking the background of recruiting agents and companies before accepting job offers.

 

The Indian government has been actively working to combat human trafficking and cybercrime in the region. Authorities have issued frequent warnings about the dangers of responding to unsolicited job offers from unknown sources.

 

The repatriation was possible due to cooperation between Indian authorities, Myanmar’s Union government, and local groups in the Myawaddy area, where many of the victims had been held.

 

The Indian Embassy in Myanmar highlighted the operation on its official X handle. It stated: “In coordination with Myanmar’s Union authorities and local groups, 283 Indian nationals at scam compounds in Myawaddy area of Myanmar were released and repatriated yesterday through Mae Sot in Thailand. Strongly reiterate our advice against such job offers.”

 

Earlier, on 11 February, eight more Indian nationals were deported from similar scam centres in Myawaddy to Mae Sot, Thailand. They were among a group of 19 foreigners rescued. The Indian Embassy in Myanmar confirmed: “So far, 133 Indian nationals have been released. We reaffirm our warning against job offers in this area.”

 

The Indian government remains committed to preventing such exploitation. It continues to work with regional and international partners to dismantle these fraudulent networks. Meanwhile, authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent job opportunities abroad.