The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that India has successfully rescued and repatriated approximately 250 Indian nationals ensnared in the Cambodia cyber work scam, with 75 of them brought back in the last three months alone. The MEA reiterated India's dedication to combatting fraudulent schemes and providing assistance to stranded Indian citizens abroad.
MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed media inquiries concerning Indian nationals stranded in Cambodia, acknowledging that over 5,000 Indians are reportedly being held against their will in the Southeast Asian country, coerced into perpetrating cyber frauds on individuals in India. The government estimates that these fraudsters have allegedly defrauded people in India of at least US$60 million (Rs 500 crore) over the past six months. Jaiswal reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing the situation and ensuring the safe repatriation of affected Indian citizens.
Jaiswal highlighted the proactive efforts of the Indian Embassy in Cambodia in responding to complaints from individuals who were deceived with false promises of job opportunities but were instead coerced into illegal cyber work. Through close collaboration with Cambodian authorities, the Indian mission has managed to rescue and repatriate approximately 250 Indian nationals. Notably, 75 individuals have been safely returned home in the past three months alone.
Our response to media queries regarding Indians stuck in Cambodia:https://t.co/xT8Mr78KcF pic.twitter.com/Jede90nfCO
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) March 30, 2024
The MEA has issued several advisories to Indian citizens, warning them about fraudulent schemes and urging caution to avoid falling victim to such scams. “We remain committed to helping all those Indian nationals in Cambodia who seek our support. We are also working with Cambodian authorities and with agencies in India to crack down on those responsible for these fraudulent schemes,” Jaiswal said.
Reports indicate Indian nationals in Cambodia have been held captive and forced into cyber fraud activities, including scams targeting people in India. The Ministry of Home Affairs held a meeting with officials from various departments to devise a strategy to rescue the trapped Indians and combat fraudulent schemes.
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