2,000 Indians working in Myanmar cybercrime camps, some willingly

HYDERABAD: Nearly 2,000 Indians are currently involved in cyber scam operations in Myawaddy, a lawless region near the Myanmar-Thailand border controlled by armed militia groups.
These individuals, many of whom were lured by fake job offers, are being forced to carry out online fraud targeting victims across India and the US. While some victims have been rescued, the embassy warns that the true scale of the scam is far larger, with many still unaware of the dangers they face.
While consular officials are working to evacuate Indian citizens, the embassy has warned that those willingly participating in these scams are not victims but criminals. Indian authorities have urged job-seekers to verify employment offers in Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand before travelling, as those involved in scams may face legal consequences.
Myawaddy has become a notorious hub for cyber crime, where workers are coerced into participating in online fraud operations, often under duress. Many of the victims, who have fallen prey to false job promises, are trapped in scam centres with no means of escape, unless they pay large ransoms. With the region controlled by warlords and militia groups, efforts to intervene have been complicated, though Indian consular officials are working to evacuate those who have sought help.
Thai authorities, responding to global pressure, have taken action by cutting electricity, internet, and fuel supplies to key areas in Myanmar where these operations are based. In addition, China has urged Thailand to clamp down on the cross-border power supply networks that support these cyber scam syndicates. Despite these measures, the situation remains dire, with many Indian nationals caught in a perilous trap.
While at least 150 individuals have been identified as victims, officials suspect the actual number is much higher as many are reportedly working voluntarily without notifying Indian authorities. Sources in ministry of external affairs said efforts are underway to assist those who have sought help.
On Feb 18, three Indians managed to escape from a scam centre in Myawaddy and were helped by the embassy to reach Yangon. They are now being processed for repatriation to India. However, officials caution that the lawless nature of Myawaddy complicates large-scale rescue efforts.
Since June 2022, over 600 Indians have been rescued from scam operations across Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand.