NEW DELHI: In a major diplomatic and rescue operation, 540 Indian nationals trapped in cyber fraud networks in Southeast Asia have been successfully repatriated. The individuals had been lured to scam centers along the Myanmar-Thailand border under false promises of lucrative job offers and were subsequently forced to participate in fraudulent activities.
The Indian embassies in Myanmar and Thailand coordinated with local authorities to ensure their safe return. On March 10 and March 11, Indian Air Force (IAF) aircrafts transported the rescued individuals back to India.
Breakdown of Repatriated Individuals by State
- Returning on March 10: A total of 283 individuals were brought back, with Uttar Pradesh (39), Maharashtra (28), Karnataka (27), Punjab (26), and Gujarat (23) being the most affected states. Other states with significant numbers include Tamil Nadu (14), Telangana (14), and Uttarakhand (14).
- Returning on March 11: An additional 257 individuals were repatriated, with Gujarat (34), Maharashtra (33), and Uttar Pradesh (26) among the highest in numbers. Tamil Nadu (19), Haryana (14), and Andhra Pradesh (12) also saw considerable impact.
The rescued individuals were coerced into working in fraudulent cybercrime hubs, commonly known as “scam centers.” These operations involved scamming people worldwide through fake investment schemes, phishing scams, and fraudulent customer service calls.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated its warning to Indian nationals about deceptive overseas job offers. Citizens are advised to verify the credentials of foreign employers, recruitment agents, and companies through Indian diplomatic missions before accepting international employment opportunities.
Rising Cases of Job Scam Victims in Southeast Asia
This rescue mission reflects the growing trend of organized criminal networks exploiting job seekers in Southeast Asia. Over recent months, several Indians have been rescued from countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand following similar tactics.
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The Indian government has committed to raising awareness about these criminal networks by engaging with recruitment agencies and educational institutions to warn job seekers about fraudulent job offers.
The successful rescue of 540 individuals underscores India’s determination to protect its citizens abroad while dismantling organized cybercrime operations that exploit vulnerable job seekers.
