India’s swift action helps rescue 47 nationals from cyber scam hub in Laos

By R Anil Kumar

• In a significant rescue operation, the Indian Embassy in Laos has successfully secured the release of 47 Indian nationals who were trapped in cyberscam centres within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province, Laos, an official press release by the Embassy stated

• To ensure the safety of the rescued individuals, Embassy officials embarked on a journey from Vientiane to Bokeo, where they engaged directly with local authorities

Indian Embassy Laos, August 31. In a remarkable rescue operation, the Indian Embassy in Laos has successfully facilitated the release of 47 Indian nationals trapped in cyber-scam centres within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province, Laos.

This achievement is a testament to the Embassy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Indian citizens abroad, especially in regions notorious for illegal activities.

The rescue mission was carried out in close coordination with local Lao authorities. The Embassy’s intervention became necessary when Lao authorities, amidst their crackdown on illicit activities in the Golden Triangle SEZ, identified and handed over 29 Indian nationals to the Embassy. The remaining 18 individuals, who had independently sought refuge at the Embassy, were also rescued as part of this operation.

About Golden Triangle SEZ

The Golden Triangle SEZ, located at the confluence of the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, is infamously known as a hub for illegal operations, including cyber scams targeting vulnerable individuals worldwide. The Embassy’s response, therefore, was both timely and critical in mitigating the risks faced by these Indian nationals.

Safety of Rescued Indians

To ensure the safety of the rescued individuals, Embassy officials embarked on a journey from Vientiane to Bokeo, where they engaged directly with local authorities.

The Embassy’s proactive approach included not only securing the release of these individuals but also arranging their safe transportation from Bokeo to Vientiane. Upon arrival in Vientiane, the rescued nationals were provided with essential accommodations and food, demonstrating the Embassy’s comprehensive care for its citizens.

The arrival of the group in Vientiane was marked by a personal interaction with Prashant Agrawal, the Indian Ambassador to Laos. Ambassador Agrawal’s direct engagement with the rescued individuals highlights the high priority placed by the Indian government on the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.

During this interaction, Ambassador Agrawal discussed the hardships faced by the individuals and provided guidance on the necessary steps for their return to India.

The Embassy has already completed the procedural formalities with the Lao authorities to ensure the repatriation of these individuals.

As of now, 30 of the 47 rescued nationals have either returned to India or are in the process of doing so, while the remaining 17 await final travel arrangements and are expected to leave Laos shortly.

Ambassador Agrawal emphasized the Embassy’s steadfast commitment to the safety of Indian citizens, stating, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of Indians is a matter of top priority for the Embassy. Any request for help received from those in distress is taken up urgently and promptly, with all due assistance extended.” This operation is part of a broader initiative by the Indian Embassy in Laos, which has successfully rescued 635 Indian nationals from similar situations in the past.

The Embassy expressed its gratitude to the Lao authorities for their cooperation in these rescue efforts and has urged them to take stringent action against those responsible for such activities. This coordinated effort underscores the Embassy’s proactive stance in dealing with crises and its ability to mobilize resources swiftly and efficiently.

The Embassy has also issued a strong advisory to Indian nationals considering job offers in Laos, urging them to exercise caution and conduct thorough due diligence to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. The advisory, accessible on the Embassy’s official website, provides detailed guidelines and encourages individuals to contact the Embassy in case of any doubts regarding job offers.

This latest rescue operation follows a series of similar efforts by the Indian Embassy in Laos, including the rescue and repatriation of 13 Indian workers, including seven from Odisha, earlier this year.

In total, the Embassy has successfully rescued 428 Indians from Laos in recent months. The Embassy continues to appeal to Indian nationals seeking employment in Laos to be vigilant and avoid being lured into illegal or fake job offers, which could put their safety at serious risk.

As the Embassy continues its efforts to protect Indian nationals abroad, it remains steadfast in its mission to ensure their safety and well-being, no matter the challenges involved.