Indian Embassy in Laos rescues 47 Indians trapped in cyber-scam centers

The Embassy further stated that all necessary formalities with Lao authorities for their repatriation had been completed. (Image: IndianEmbLaos/X)

The Embassy of India in Vientiane, Laos, on August 31 said that it had successfully rescued 47 Indian nationals who were caught in cyber-scam centers in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province, Lao PDR.

The Embassy reported that this operation was carried out following a crackdown by Lao authorities on illegal activities in the SEZ, leading to 29 Indians being handed over to them. Additionally, 18 individuals approached the Embassy directly for assistance, it added.

According to the Embassy, officials traveled from Vientiane to Bokeo to work closely with local authorities and facilitate the release of the trapped Indians. Upon their arrival in Vientiane, the Embassy arranged transportation, accommodations, and food for the rescued group.

The Embassy said Ambassador Prashant Agrawal met with the group to discuss the challenges they had faced and advised them on the next steps. The Embassy further stated that all necessary formalities with Lao authorities for their repatriation had been completed. So far, 30 individuals have safely returned to India or are on their way, while 17 are still waiting for travel arrangements, it emphasized.

Ambassador Agrawal reaffirmed the Embassy's commitment to the safety of Indian citizens abroad, stating, "ensuring 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 and all due assistance extended."

This rescue effort is part of a broader ongoing initiative by the Embassy, which has now rescued a total of 635 Indians from similar situations. The Embassy also urged caution when considering job offers in Lao PDR and called for actions against fraudulent actors.