Cyber Crime
MEA to Rescue 500 More Indians Trapped in Myanmar’s Cyber Crime Centres
HYDERABAD: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has intensified diplomatic negotiations with Myanmar’s military junta and other stakeholders to facilitate the release of at least 500 more Indians trapped in cyber crime centres in Myawaddy, a region under the control of the Border Guard Force (BGF).
This development follows the recent repatriation of approximately 540 Indian nationals, a mission coordinated by Indian embassies in Myanmar and Thailand. Many of these individuals were lured with fake job offers, primarily for data entry roles, only to be coerced into executing cyber fraud operations targeting victims worldwide.
540 Indians Repatriated, More Await Rescue
As part of the latest evacuation effort, 540 Indians—including 24 from Telangana and 18 from Andhra Pradesh—were airlifted by the Indian Air Force’s C-17 aircraft from Mae Sot, Thailand, to Ghaziabad. Upon arrival, they were handed over to their respective state governments for further assistance.
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MEA sources estimate that nearly 2,000 Indians remain trapped in these cyber crime hubs. The current rescue mission aims to extract at least 500 more, but the operation is fraught with challenges due to the lawlessness in Myawaddy and the BGF’s semi-autonomous control. The militia, though supportive of Myanmar’s junta, has allowed only those actively seeking help to leave. However, some Indians are reportedly continuing to work in these centres voluntarily and have refused repatriation.
Complexities in Rescue Operations
Myawaddy has emerged as a hotspot for large-scale cyber fraud, where individuals are forced to carry out scams disguised as investment opportunities and fake digital law enforcement threats. Many are held against their will and can only escape by paying substantial ransoms. The Indian government, in collaboration with international agencies, continues to push for broader intervention. Officials warn that while diplomatic efforts have led to successful rescues, the full extent of the cyber crime syndicate remains unknown.
The MEA has reiterated its advisory cautioning job seekers against falling for fraudulent employment offers. Beyond Myanmar, similar cyber crime centres are reportedly operating in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.