February 16, Colombo (LNW): Thirteen Sri Lankans who had been forcibly held in cybercrime camps across Myanmar have reportedly been freed, with authorities confirming their safety.
The group includes 11 young men and two women, all aged between 20 and 30. They are currently in good health, and plans are underway for their transfer from the Thai border to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Bangkok.
Once at the embassy, arrangements will be made to return them to Sri Lanka in the coming days.
The successful rescue operation marks a significant step forward, though four other Sri Lankans are still being detained in separate camps in Myanmar.
Sources within Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry have stated that efforts to secure the release of the remaining captives are ongoing, with diplomats working tirelessly to negotiate their freedom.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has been actively involved in the rescue efforts, recently engaging in high-level talks with both the Thai Foreign Minister and Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister.
Herath’s appeal for assistance in freeing those trapped in cybercrime operations has seemingly borne fruit, with the latest developments seen as a positive outcome of these diplomatic exchanges.
Despite the progress, officials remain focused on ensuring the safe return of the remaining Sri Lankans. Further diplomatic measures are expected in the coming days as the situation unfolds.
