Another Nepali Detained for Coercing Hostages into Online Fraud at Chinese Company in Myanmar

The Anti-Human Trafficking Bureau in Nepal has announced the apprehension of a 27-year-old Nepali national, Kabita Gurung, in connection with an elaborate online scam operation operating out of Myanmar. The arrest sheds light on a sophisticated network that allegedly deceived American citizens through cryptocurrency investments, compelling victims to work under harsh conditions.

According to Krishna Prasad Pangeni, the Superintendent of Police at the Anti-Human Trafficking Bureau, Gurung was arrested from Ward 4 of Gorkha Dharche Municipality. Gurung’s illegal activities reportedly involved utilizing English typing skills in Thailand to lure individuals with promises of lucrative monthly earnings exceeding a hundred thousand, coupled with accommodations.

The investigation reveals that two individuals were forcefully brought to Myanmar, where they were transformed into bonded laborers working for a company operated by Chinese nationals in the Myawadi area. Victims were reportedly coerced to work excessively long hours—18 to 20 hours a day—after being confined against their will.

Superintendent Pangeni disclosed that Gurung received up to 260,000 rupees from these illicit operations. The scam targeted American citizens, extracting money from them by posing as cryptocurrency investment opportunities. Non-compliance with set targets allegedly led to severe physical abuse.

Further details emerged indicating that some Nepali victims were coerced into using their current bank accounts. Attempts to return to Nepal were met with additional extortion, as Chinese nationals reportedly demanded an extra 800,000 rupees before allowing their departure.

In light of the arrest, the Kathmandu District Court granted permission to detain Gurung for seven days. This development closely follows the recent apprehension of another individual involved in the same fraudulent operation just last Friday.