Indian embassy in Laos rescues 47 Indian nationals from cyber-scam centres
indian nationals laos
The Indian embassy in Laos has rescued 47 Indians trapped in cyber-scam centres at the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province of Lao PDR, the embassy said in a press release, on Saturday (Aug 31).
Out of 47 Indians, Lao authorities handed over 29 Indian nationals, after their crackdown on illegal activities in Golden Triangle SEZ.
Meanwhile, the other 18 had approached the embassy to seek help.
The officials from the Indian embassy in Laos, travelled from Vientiane to Bokeo, to actively liaise to help them rescue.
The embassy organised the transport from Bokeo to Vientiane, along with accommodation and food for the Indian nationals, upon arrival in the Laos capital.
Prashant Agrawal, ambassador of India to Lao PDR, met the group upon arrival to discuss the challenges they faced, and to advise further course of action.
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Moreover, the Indian embassy has completed all the procedural requirements of Lao authorities for their repatriation to India.
17 more Indians to leave soon
Notably, 30 Indian nationals, have already safely returned from Laos to India, or are on their way, the embassy stated. The remaining 17 are only awaiting travel arrangements to be firmed up and will be leaving Laos soon.
'Safety of Indians, a matter of top priority'
Agrawal said,"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."
The Indian embassy in Laos has so far rescued 635 Indians and ensured their safe return to India.
"We thank Lao authorities for their help and cooperation. We have also urged action at their end against unscrupulous elements and the matter has been raised at the highest levels," the Indian embassy in Laos said in a press release.
"We strongly advise any Indian planning to take up any job offer in Lao PDR to exercise utmost care and caution, and do the due diligence thoroughly to avoid being duped," itadded.
(With inputs from agencies)
