In a remarkable operation, the Counter Intelligence Wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police successfully rescued 13 young individuals who had fallen prey to a cyber-fraud syndicate operating from Myanmar. The incident sheds light on the growing threat of online scams targeting job seekers in the region.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) for Counter Intelligence Kashmir, Tahir Ashraf, explained the elaborate recruitment scheme that lured these youths into the deceptive web of online scams. “Every day, we observe online scams purportedly offering job opportunities. In this instance, a significant racket was at play,” he said.
Recently, a family in Srinagar received multiple calls from unknown individuals demanding a ransom of around five lakh rupees for the release of their son, whom the callers claimed had been abducted in Myanmar. The family informed the police about the ransom calls regarding their son, who had gone to Thailand for a job. The Jammu and Kashmir Police acted swiftly and handed over the investigation to the Counter Insurgency Wing (CIK) for further action.
During the investigation, the CIK found that the scam, primarily conducted through social media platforms like Facebook, promised enticing job roles for data entry operators abroad, particularly in Thailand. Victims clicked on fraudulent links, participated in online interviews, and were even sent tickets, leading them to believe they were embarking on legitimate employment opportunities. Unfortunately, upon arrival in Thailand, these youths discovered they had been ensnared in a deceitful scheme.
“They were coerced into identifying targets for scams globally and forced to engage in inappropriate activities online to record videos, which were later used for blackmail,” SSP Tahir Ashraf revealed.
Upon discovering the plight of the trapped individuals, intelligence agencies took immediate action, escalating the issue to the highest authorities in New Delhi. A coordinated rescue operation ensued, culminating in the safe return of the 13 youths to Kashmir.
In light of this incident, SSP Ashraf urged parents and young people to remain vigilant against online scams. “We advise the youth to avoid falling into traps set by scammers on social media. There are numerous government initiatives aimed at skill development that can help enhance their employability,” he said. The police are now offering counseling to the rescued youths and their families to help them navigate this distressing experience and encourage constructive engagement in local opportunities.
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