Police Arrest Two Individuals Following Rescue of 47 “Cyber Slaves” from Myanmar

The Human Trafficking Bureau of the Nepal Police has arrested two suspects allegedly involved in a transnational trafficking ring that forced Nepali citizens into digital slavery in Myanmar. The arrests of 24-year-old Ranjit Kumar Mahato and 41-year-old Maniraj Rai follow the successful rescue and repatriation of 47 Nepalis on December 8, 2025.

Investigations reveal that a Chinese criminal syndicate operates high-security camps in Mewadi, a region in Myanmar currently under rebel control. The syndicate lures victims with promises of high-paying IT jobs in Thailand, only to transport them across the border to Myanmar. Once there, their passports and phones are confiscated, and they are forced to perform online scams.

Mechanics of Digital Slavery

Victims reported being held in a facility called “KK Park,” where they were forced to work up to 18 hours a day. Their primary task was “phishing”—creating fake social media profiles to lure American and European citizens into fraudulent Bitcoin and cryptocurrency investments.

According to SSP Krishna Pangeni, victims who refused to participate or failed to meet daily targets faced severe physical and mental torture. Reported abuses included electric shocks, beatings, food deprivation, and forced physical labor. The syndicate reportedly demanded ransoms of up to $10,000, often paid in cryptocurrency, or required victims to lure 3-4 more Nepalis into the trap before allowing them to leave.

Scope of the Crisis

While 47 individuals were recently brought home through the joint efforts of the Nepali Embassy in Thailand and the Myanmar government, authorities estimate that approximately 100 more Nepalis remain captive in these camps. Since its inception, the Bureau has rescued a total of 107 victims from similar situations across Southeast Asia, including:

• Myanmar: 107 total (103 men, 4 women)
• Panama: 20 individuals
• Palau: 20 individuals
• Cambodia: 9 individuals

Victim Testimony

One survivor detailed his ordeal, explaining he was recruited by an agent in Kathmandu who promised a monthly salary exceeding 100,000 rupees. After traveling through New Delhi and Yangon, he was taken to a facility operated by a company called “Fusun and Rudra.” He was only released after a military raid on the facility caused the Chinese operators to flee.

Police continue to investigate the network of local agents who facilitate these operations. Authorities have reiterated warnings to job seekers to remain vigilant against high-salary offers in Southeast Asia that lack proper labor permits and official documentation.