The Embassy has completed all necessary procedural requirements with the Lao authorities to bring these persons back to India.

Vientiane: In a significant rescue operation, the Embassy of India in Laos has successfully rescued 47 Indian nationals trapped in cyber-scam centers under the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province, Laos, an official press release said. The embassy said. Underscoring the embassy's commitment to the safety and welfare of Indian nationals abroad, the mission was carried out in close coordination with local authorities in Laos.

The situation came to light when Laos authorities handed over 29 Indians to the embassy while cracking down on illegal activities in the Golden Triangle SEZ. The remaining 18 persons had approached the embassy separately, expressing their grief and seeking help to overcome their plight.

The Golden Triangle SEZ, located near the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, has become notorious as a hub for illegal activities, including cyber scams targeting unsuspecting individuals.

To facilitate rescue operations, embassy officials traveled from Vientiane to Bokeo, communicating directly with local authorities to ensure the safe release of these individuals. The embassy arranged for the rescued nationals to be transported from Bokyo to Vientiane and accommodated and fed upon their arrival.

A quick and coordinated response highlights the Embassy's proactive approach to such emergencies.

After the group's arrival in Vientiane, they were met by Prashant Agarwal, India's ambassador to Laos. Ambassador Agarwal personally interacted with the evacuees, discussed the challenges they faced and advised them on the next steps.

Their participation underscores the high priority given to the security of Indian citizens abroad.

The Embassy has completed all necessary procedural requirements with the Lao authorities to bring these persons back to India.

Of the 47 rescued, 30 have already returned safely or are in the process of returning, while the remaining 17 are awaiting final travel arrangements and are expected to leave Laos soon.

Emphasizing the Embassy's unwavering commitment to the security of Indian citizens, Ambassador Agrawal said, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of Indians is the highest priority of the Embassy. Any request for help from those in distress is attended to promptly and promptly, all appropriate help being extended. “

This latest operation is part of the wider efforts of the Indian Embassy in Laos, which has successfully rescued 635 Indian nationals from similar situations in the past. The embassy expressed its gratitude to the Lao authorities for their cooperation in these rescue efforts and urged them to take action against unscrupulous elements responsible for such activities.

This issue has also been raised at the highest level to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

Indian Embassy successfully rescued 47 Indians trapped in cyber scam centers in Golden Triangle SEZ, Lao PDR. Press release detailed below: pic.twitter.com/Ap4BTJYP7c

— India in Laos (@IndianEmbLaos) 31 August 2024

The embassy has issued a strong advisory to Indian nationals considering job offers in Laos, urging them to exercise caution and do due diligence to avoid being scammed.

An advisor available on the embassy's website provides detailed guidance and encourages people to contact the embassy if they have any queries.

(Headline only reproduced by India.com staff. Copy comes from agency feed)