Pakistani diplomats in Myanmar and Thailand have issued a warning to job seekers about employment scams in Southeast Asia following the recent abduction of a young Pakistani in the region.
The diplomats revealed that smuggling camps near the Myanmar-Laos border hold over 200,000 individuals, including Pakistanis, who are being detained and forced to participate in online scams. Victims are often enticed by online advertisements promising lucrative jobs and are provided with airline tickets and visas. Upon arrival, they are transported to these camps.
The diplomats urged job seekers to be cautious and thoroughly verify any job offers to avoid becoming victims of human trafficking and exploitation.
The warning highlighted that similar scams also impact Pakistanis in Gulf countries, where victims may be forced to work 18-hour days for just $200 per month. Many have reported facing violence and are often denied food if they refuse to work.
Access to these camps is limited for embassy officials, making it difficult to provide immediate assistance to those in need.
The ambassadors advised individuals considering job offers in Thailand, Laos, or Myanmar to confirm the legitimacy of the offers before traveling. Verification can be done through the emails parepbangkok@mofa.gov.pk and pakistanembassyyangon@gmail.com.
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