Following repeated appeals to the Government of Myanmar and neighbouring countries by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, twenty Sri Lankans, who were victims of human trafficking and stranded in Myanmar, have been rescued and safely arrived in Mae Sot, Thailand, on August 14, 2024. Sri Lanka Ambassador in Thailand Wijayanthi Edirisinghe visited Mae Sot today and met with the rescued Sri Lankans and inquired into their welfare. The Sri Lanka Missions in Yangon and Bangkok have been working closely to ensure the safe release and well-being of the victims.
All the rescued Sri Lankans are in good health, and Thai authorities are facilitating Consular assistance. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Bangkok is coordinating with Thai authorities to take necessary measures to repatriate the rescued Sri Lankans.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also working through the Sri Lankan Missions in Yangon and Bangkok to rescue the remaining 34 Sri Lankans stranded in the Myawaddy area of Myanmar at present, with the support of the relevant governments.
These Sri Lankans traveled to Myanmar seeking foreign employment, without following the proper procedures for overseas employment and using tourist visas, they were lured into cybercriminal operations and became victims of human trafficking. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urges the public to be cautious and to adhere to the proper procedures when pursuing employment opportunities abroad, so as not to fall victim to human trafficking.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Colombo
15 August 2024
