Hyderabad, September 12: Several Hyderabad residents have fallen victim to human trafficking to Laos, lured by promises of high-paying jobs but subjected to torture when they refused to engage in cybercrime. Syed Saleemuddin, a 23-year-old former Rapido worker, filed a complaint with Telangana Cyber Crime Police on September 5 after escaping a three-month ordeal in Laos.

Saleemuddin recounted how in April, a friend introduced him to a man named Syed Abdul Sami, who offered a job in Laos with a starting salary of INR 70,000. After an interview to assess his English skills, Saleemuddin and his friend, Mohd Javeed, paid INR 30,000 each to Sami's father. They were promised flight tickets, visas, and accommodation.

Indian Men Trafficked to Laos for Cybercrime

In May, Saleemuddin, Javeed, and another victim, Syed Irfan, flew from Hyderabad to Laos. Upon arrival, they were taken to a company called YING XIN PROPERTY in the Golden Triangle SEZ, where their passports were confiscated.

Forced into Cybercrime and Torture

The victims soon realised they had been deceived into participating in cybercrimes like crypto scam and honeytraps targeting Indians in the US, UK, and Canada. Refusing to participate, they faced brutal punishments, including electric shocks, forced marches up 15 floors, and fines. They were confined to their rooms after 5 PM and given inedible food.

Escape to Freedom

With help from escapees from Rajasthan, Saleemuddin and others contacted the Indian embassy. After intense negotiations, they secured their passports and fled to Thailand, eventually returning to Hyderabad on July 24. Following his complaint, police have launched an investigation under the IT Act.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 12, 2024 10:24 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).