Sri Lanka’s Secretary of Defence General Kamal Gunaratne (Rtd) has urged Sri Lankans to refrain from seeking employment in Myanmar through illegal means.
According to a Defence Ministry statement, the Secretary of Defence said the government strongly advises citizens to refrain from seeking employment in Myanmar through illegal foreign employment agents or persons and institutions involved in human trafficking.
Alarming reports have revealed that a group of Sri Lankans who have illegally left for work in Myanmar are being forcibly detained for illegal activities in a camp in the cybercrime area operated by terrorist groups in Myanmar.
Despite prior warnings by the government, it has been revealed that 89 Sri Lankans have illegally travelled to Myanmar for employment. Through the dedicated efforts of officials with the assistance of the government of Myanmar, 40 Sri Lankans have been released from captivity, he said.
The Secretary of Defence revealed, however, reports state that 54 Sri Lankans remain trapped in the cybercrime area and that the Sri Lankan government, in cooperation with the Myanmar government, is making every effort to secure the release of those still held captive.
General Kamal Gunaratne further said that despite prior warnings and ongoing efforts, it is learnt that certain individuals continue to travel to Myanmar for employment through illegal means.
Considering the status quo, the Secretary of Defence requested the public to refrain from seeking employment in Myanmar.
He urged those having any information regarding individuals involved in human trafficking activities to contact the Ministry of Defence or the Criminal Investigation Department to ensure the safety and security of all Sri Lankan citizens. (Newswire)