- In a disturbing case exposing the dark side of overseas job scams, police in Visakhapatnam have arrested a man for allegedly luring unemployed youth with fake job offers and trafficking them into cyber fraud networks abroad.
The accused, identified as Bongu Murali, was operating from the I Town area and is believed to be part of a larger network linked to “cyber slavery” operations in Southeast Asia.
Fake job offers turned into cyber slavery
According to investigators, the accused ran an institute through which he promised high-paying overseas jobs such as data entry roles.
However, instead of legitimate employment, victims were allegedly sent to countries like:
- Thailand
- Myanmar
- Cambodia
Once there, they were forced to work in cyber scam centres, often under coercion and threats.
FutureCrime Summit 2026 Calls for Speakers From Government, Industry and Academia
Victim alleges torture and forced cybercrime
The case came to light after a victim returned from Cambodia and filed a complaint, revealing the extent of exploitation.
The victim alleged that he was:
- Tortured and threatened
- Forced to participate in cyber fraud activities
- Kept under constant pressure to meet scam targets
Such conditions are increasingly being described as modern-day “cyber slavery,” where individuals are trafficked and compelled to commit online crimes.
Accused admitted role, multiple cases registered
During interrogation, the accused reportedly admitted to:
- Collecting money from job seekers
- Arranging travel and flight tickets
- Sending victims to overseas scam networks
Police said he already faces multiple cases of fraud and cheating, indicating a pattern of organised criminal activity.
Wider crackdown and legal action underway
Authorities have registered a fresh case and initiated further investigation into the network of recruiters and international handlers involved.
A Look Out Circular (LOC) has been issued, and stringent legal provisions have been invoked to prevent further trafficking.
Police officials have warned that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in such schemes, especially those exploiting job seekers.
Growing threat of overseas job scams
The case highlights a rising trend where fraudsters:
- Target unemployed youth with lucrative foreign job offers
- Charge fees for placements
- Traffic victims into scam compounds abroad
Experts note that victims are often subjected to passport confiscation, confinement, and threats, forcing them into illegal cyber activities.
Authorities have urged the public to verify overseas job offers thoroughly and avoid dealing with unregistered agents or suspicious consultancies.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
