The National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force (NAHTTF) has issued an urgent warning about the trafficking of Sri Lankans from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to cyber scam centers in Myanmar. The NAHTTF has reported a disturbing increase in cases of Sri Lankan citizens being recruited under false pretenses, only to end up forced into illegal cyber scamming operations.
Recent investigations reveal that traffickers are targeting Sri Lankan IT professionals, luring them with promises of high-paying tech jobs abroad. These individuals are often taken to places like Dubai under the guise of attending job interviews but are then trafficked to Myanmar. Once there, they are coerced into working at scam centers and are reportedly subjected to brutal treatment, including mental and physical abuse, with some cases involving electrocution.
The NAHTTF has reiterated the importance of safe migration practices and warned job seekers against using illegal migration routes, which are not only hazardous but also violate the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Act. The agency stresses that those seeking employment abroad should only use authorized channels and avoid traveling on visit visas for job purposes.
To combat trafficking, the NAHTTF urges the public to:
- Use safe, legal migration pathways through certified agencies.
- Remain vigilant and report suspicious trafficking activities.
- Protect vulnerable individuals by notifying authorities of Sri Lankans abroad who might be at risk.
Those with information on trafficking are encouraged to contact the NAHTTF at 0112102570 or 076 844 7700, or via email at nahttfsrilanka@gmail.com.
