Chinese Criminal Networks in Myanmar Exploit Nepali Workers as ‘Cyber Slaves,’ Unveiling Disturbing Human Trafficking Scheme

In a shocking revelation, more than 50 Nepalis who were ensnared as ‘cyber slaves’ by Chinese criminal networks in Myanmar have returned home after enduring months of torment and financial loss. The victims, who managed to escape by paying a hefty ransom, recently narrated their harrowing ordeal, shedding light on the dark underbelly of human trafficking and cybercrime.

Deceptive Employment Lures Turn into Nightmare

Nepalis were enticed by the promise of lucrative employment opportunities, only to find themselves trapped in a sinister cycle of exploitation. Groups engaged in human trafficking transported a large number of Nepalis to Burma, holding them hostage for use in online scams. The victims, numbering around 60 in one camp alone, were forced to work up to 20 hours a day, facing severe physical and mental torture if they failed to meet their targets.

Ransom Payments and Desperation for Rescue

Unable to endure the torture, more than 50 Nepalis resorted to paying a ransom of 6,000 US dollars (approximately 800,000 Nepali rupees) per person to secure their release. Disturbingly, the ransom payments included amounts borrowed through loans, adding to the financial burden on the victims. Some of the returnees have lodged complaints with the police, seeking justice against those responsible for their predicament.

Human Trafficking Investigations and Arrests

In response to the victims’ complaints, the Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau took swift action, arresting three individuals implicated in the trafficking of Nepalis to Myanmar. SSP Jeevan Kumar Shrestha, the bureau’s director, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that several people have returned to Nepal after paying ransoms to Chinese gangs. The arrested individuals, Shri Krishna Ghale, Wango Lama, and Prema Lama, were involved in luring others with promises of employment opportunities.

Intricate Web of Cyber Scams and Exploitation

The Cyber Bureau, having arrested three individuals last week for facilitating the trafficking of Nepalis to Myanmar, uncovered a complex network of cyber scams. The individuals arrested, including Shri Krishna Ghale and Wango Lama, were themselves ensnared by Chinese gangs. The bureau’s SP Krishna Prasad Pageni revealed that the traffickers were creating traps to ensnare others, contributing to a self-perpetuating cycle of exploitation.

Government Intervention and International Complications

The Nepali Embassy in Myanmar, led by Ambassador Harishchandra Ghimire, is actively engaged in efforts to rescue Nepalis held hostage by Chinese criminal networks. The ambassador highlighted the challenges of coordinating rescue operations, particularly in areas close to Thailand. Despite repeated pleas to the Myanmar government for intervention, rescue efforts have been hindered, with suspicions of Chinese gangs influencing local military forces.

Desperate Plea for Rescue

Amid these revelations, seven Nepalis currently held hostage in Myawaddy located approximately 350 kilometers from Myanmar’s capital. region have issued a desperate plea for rescue. They claim to be subjected to torture, including electric shocks, and have sought assistance from the Nepali Embassy. Ambassador Ghimire stated that the embassy has reached out to Myanmar’s Foreign Minister, Home Minister, Chief of Police, and Immigration authorities to expedite the rescue efforts.

Survivor Testimonies: A Glimpse into the Horrors

Survivors, whose identities have been concealed for safety, shared their stories of deception, torture, and eventual escape. One victim, Santosh (name changed), detailed how he was promised a well-paying computer translation job in Myanmar but ended up as a ‘cyber slave.’ Forced to work 20 hours a day, he endured torture, including hunger, and eventually paid a ransom to secure his release.

The situation further underscores the urgent need for international cooperation to dismantle these criminal networks, protect vulnerable workers, and bring perpetrators to justice. As Nepalis strive to rebuild their lives after escaping the clutches of cyber slavery, efforts are underway to raise awareness, strengthen anti-trafficking measures, and enhance diplomatic efforts to combat this growing menace, National News Paper Naya Patrika Daily Reported.

Linked Report: Chinese Criminal Gangs Hold Approximately 1,000 Nepali Hostages in Myanmar – epardafas.com