Sri Lankan Nationals Rescued from Human Trafficking in Myanmar

Bangkok, Thailand, November 25, 2024 – In a significant humanitarian development, thirty-two Sri Lankan nationals who had been victims of human trafficking were successfully rescued from Myanmar on November 25. The individuals, comprising 8 females and 24 males, were part of a larger group lured into illegal cybercrime operations and trafficked to Myanmar, where they were subjected to exploitative conditions.

The rescue was the result of a coordinated effort by the Sri Lankan Government, in collaboration with Myanmar and Thailand, and with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, as well as Sri Lanka's Ambassadors in Thailand and Myanmar, played pivotal roles in organizing the operation.

A Tragic Scheme Exposed

The victims were reportedly misled with promises of legitimate employment opportunities abroad, only to find themselves trapped in illegal cybercrime rings upon arrival in Myanmar. Human trafficking operations like these have become a growing concern, with traffickers exploiting vulnerable individuals under the guise of job offers.

This recent rescue follows two earlier operations earlier in 2024, in April and August, which saw the successful repatriation of 28 other Sri Lankans trapped in similar circumstances. The ongoing efforts underscore the persistent threat posed by human traffickers, who target unsuspecting individuals seeking employment opportunities abroad.

A Coordinated Effort Across Borders

Ven. Maligawila Assaji Thero, a key figure in the rescue operation, acted on behalf of the families of the trafficked individuals, helping to facilitate communications and support the Sri Lankan Government's efforts. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, had previously instructed urgent diplomatic representations to Myanmar and Thailand, requesting their assistance in securing the safe release of the victims.

Following the operation, the 32 individuals were safely brought across the Mae Sot border and received by Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Thailand. They are currently housed in Tak Province, Thailand, where their immediate welfare needs are being attended to as they await repatriation.

Advisory on Safe Employment Abroad

In light of these incidents, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong advisory urging all Sri Lankans seeking employment overseas to adhere strictly to authorized procedures. They are advised to verify job offers through the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) to avoid falling prey to traffickers.

This rescue operation highlights the importance of vigilance and proper channels when seeking foreign employment, as well as the ongoing need for international cooperation to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

For further information on the efforts and to learn more about the dangers of human trafficking, individuals are encouraged to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' official website.