Citizens of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan rescued from human trafficking in Myanmar

Replrtedly, the individuals had traveled to Thailand after responding to online advertisements offering high-paying jobs. They were reportedly provided with free airline tickets from Uzbekistan. However, upon arrival in Thailand, they were deceived and illegally taken across the border into Myanmar, where they fell into the hands of criminal groups involved in human trafficking.

The victims told diplomats that they were forced to work in fraudulent call centers in Myanmar. Those who refused to participate in illegal activities were subjected to physical violence and threats.

The situation came to light after a group of affected citizens contacted the Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Bangkok, requesting assistance in returning home. During the verification process, it was also established that citizens of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan were being held in similar conditions.

Given that Kyrgyzstan does not have a diplomatic mission in Thailand, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan provided practical assistance at the request of the Kyrgyz side to facilitate the return of Kyrgyz citizens as well.

Following coordinated efforts and negotiations with the relevant authorities of Myanmar and Thailand, the citizens of the three countries were released and handed over to Uzbek and Kazakh diplomats at the Mae Sot border checkpoint in Thailand. After their release, the individuals were provided with temporary accommodation and food.

With the support of the diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in Thailand, the rescued citizens were returned to their home countries.