KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 750 Malaysians involved in job fraud syndicate abroad have been successfully rescued and repatriated to this country as of Feb 25.

The Foreign Ministry, in a written reply on the Parliament website, said eight Malaysians are in the process of being repatriated, while another 236 people are being tracked down.

"This brings the total number of Malaysians involved to 994. This number is based on reports received from the next of kin, family members, friends, police or the individuals themselves," according to the written reply.

The ministry was responding to a question by Chong Zemin (PH-Kampar) regarding steps taken to rescue Malaysians who were cheated abroad and forced to engage in cyber scams.

Efforts to rescue the Malaysians in question were carried out by the Foreign Ministry through Malaysian Diplomatic Representations abroad in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and local authorities.

The Foreign Ministry said upon arrival in Malaysia, the individuals had their statements taken by police to assist in the investigation and determine their involvement in such syndicates.

"Strict action will be taken if there is strong evidence that they are recruiters and not victims based on existing laws, including the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (ATIPSOM) Act 2007 which can carry a maximum prison sentence of 30 years," the ministry said.

The ministry also advised Malaysians to be vigilant and not be easily fooled by advertisements on job offers abroad that promise lucrative and unrealistic salaries.

-- BERNAMA