More than 500 Indian nationals, lured by fake job offers and trafficked into cybercrime hubs in Myanmar, are currently stranded near the Thailand border. The Indian government has launched a large-scale operation to secure their release and repatriation.
According to official sources, the victims are being held in cybercrime centers located in the Myawaddy region along the Myanmar–Thailand border. Many of them hail from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Recruitment agents reportedly promised lucrative jobs, initially flying the individuals to Thailand before illegally transporting them into Myanmar. Their passports were confiscated, and they were forced to engage in online fraud and cybercrime activities.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stepped in to coordinate with the governments of Myanmar and Thailand to facilitate their rescue. Arrangements are underway to airlift the stranded Indians from Mae Sot, Thailand, using a special Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft.
Two-Phase Rescue Effort
The MEA confirmed that over 500 citizens have already been rescued and brought back to India in two phases. However, hundreds more remain trapped. Once the victims cross into Thailand, Thai authorities are expected to hand them over to Indian officials, who will oversee their repatriation via IAF flights.
Government Issues Advisory
The Centre has urged Indian citizens to exercise caution while accepting overseas job offers. It advised job seekers to verify company details and recruitment agents’ credentials through Indian embassies or missions abroad before proceeding. The government also warned against human trafficking syndicates operating under the guise of foreign employment opportunities.