March 18, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions in Myanmar and Thailand, successfully orchestrated the rescue of 14 Sri Lankan nationals who had been trafficked and forced into labour at cybercrime centres in Myawaddy, Myanmar.
The repatriation of the individuals is scheduled for 18th March 2025, following a series of coordinated efforts involving the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand.
These efforts were pivotal in ensuring the safe return of the victims, who had been subjected to exploitation and illegal work in dangerous conditions.
This breakthrough comes after months of sustained diplomatic negotiations led by Sri Lankan officials. Notably, Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath engaged in high-level discussions with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister of Foreign Affairs, U Than Swe, on February 03, 2024, followed by talks with Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maris Sangiampongsa, on February 13, 2025.
During these conversations, Minister Herath emphasised the urgency of securing the release and safe return of the trafficked Sri Lankans.
The Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep gratitude to the governments of Myanmar and Thailand for their swift and effective support in the rescue operation.
Additionally, recognition has been given to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) for assisting with international air travel and internal transportation, as well as to various non-governmental organisations in Myanmar who provided essential welfare services to the victims during the period of their ordeal.
