Mumbai, India— The government brought home Filipinos affected by the crackdown on illegal companies within a shady “special economic zone” in Laos, the Philippine embassy in Vientianne said.
Local media have reported that security forces have begun dismantling the online fraud ring – Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) – in Bokeo province.
Authorities have detained over 700 people from 15 different nationalities, including those from Laos, China, Burundi, Colombia, Ethiopia, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Mozambique, Tunisia, and the Philippines.
“The Philippine embassy in Vientiane, is working closely with Lao authorities and has also sent a team to Bokeo province to facilitate the release and extraction of distressed OFs from the GTSEZ,” the DFA said in a statement.
It added that the government is shouldering the expense of return flights for Filipinos from Bokeo to Vientiane and to Manila, including accommodation, food, and basic needs.
Seven Filipinos have been brought home out of 129 requests for repatriation.
“The embassy is currently arranging the repatriation of 75 more Filipinos. The team stands ready to assist Filipinos who may still be remaining in the Golden Triangle and will continue to work with Lao authorities to ensure their safety,” the DFA said.
