15 victims of job scam syndicate in Myanmar return to Malaysia

BUKIT KAYU HITAM: A total of 15 victims of a job scam syndicate in Myanmar were successfully brought back to Malaysia today.

All the victims arrived safely at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) complex and were handed over to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) to assist in investigation.

In a statement today, the Foreign Ministry said the Malaysian embassy in Bangkok had facilitated the repatriation of the victims.

According to the ministry, after the Myanmar authorities had handed the victims over to the Thai authorities on Feb 12, the Malaysian embassy immediately provided comprehensive consular assistance.

"The assistance included consular visits, contacting next of kin and issuing temporary travel documents.

"The embassy had also arranged transportation and provided basic necessities, including food and face masks, in addition to accompanying the victims throughout their 25-hour journey from Tak Province, Thailand, to Bukit Kayu Hitam."

The ministry said the success of the repatriation process was supported by close cooperation from the Ministry of Home Affairs, PDRM, the Malaysian Immigration Department and the Malaysian Consulate General in Songkhla.

The ministry expressed its highest appreciation to the Thai government for its assistance in receiving the Malaysian job scam victims from Myanmar and expediting their repatriation process.

"The Foreign Ministry remains committed to ensuring that the welfare of Malaysian citizens abroad is safeguarded and, through its diplomatic missions, is always ready to provide consular assistance when needed," the ministry added.

-- BERNAMA

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