Twelve Indian workers rescued from unsafe, illegal Labour conditions in Laos

New Delhi, April 07: The Embassy of India in Laos, in collaboration with local authorities, has successfully rescued twelve Indian workers who were ensnared in illegal work arrangements in Laos. These individuals, rescued from deceptive promises of employment, are now being repatriated back to their homes in India.

The ongoing efforts to safeguard Indian citizens from falling victim to fraudulent job offers underscore the persistent warnings issued by officials against jeopardizing one's safety in pursuit of dubious opportunities. Indian nationals have been urged time and again to adhere to travel advisories and exercise caution when seeking employment abroad.

Dr. S Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, lauded the successful repatriation of the twelve workers, emphasizing the effectiveness of governmental initiatives in ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian citizens both domestically and internationally.

“Modi ki Guarantee works for all at home and abroad. 12 Indian workers lured into unsafe and illegal work in Laos are on their way back home. Well, done @IndianEmbLaos. Thanks, Lao authorities for the safe repartition,” said Dr S Jaishankar in a message on X.

This rescue mission comes on the heels of recent cautionary advisories issued by the Indian government, particularly concerning employment opportunities in Cambodia. Reports have surfaced indicating a rising trend of Indian nationals being lured into illegal activities, including online financial scams, by human traffickers operating under the guise of promising job prospects.

To address this concerning trend, the Ministry of External Affairs has intensified its collaboration with Cambodian authorities, with the Indian Mission in Phnom Penh actively engaged in assisting affected Indian nationals. The emphasis has been placed on cautioning individuals to utilize authorized channels and conduct thorough background checks on prospective employers to mitigate the risks of exploitation.

Recent media disclosures shed light on the distressing reality faced by hundreds of Indian citizens coerced into participating in cyber-fraud schemes in Cambodia. Despite successful rescue operations, challenges persist, with additional cases requiring urgent attention.

The gravity of the situation is further underscored by reports of unlawful detentions of Indian nationals in Cambodia, Laos, and some other countries in South East Asia prompting heightened vigilance among Indian citizens considering overseas employment opportunities.

In light of these developments, Indian authorities continue to stress the importance of vigilance and caution among citizens seeking work abroad.

By staying informed and exercising prudence, individuals can safeguard themselves against falling prey to fraudulent schemes, ensuring their safety and well-being in foreign countries.