The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a six-member gang involved in trafficking Pakistani citizens to Cambodia, where victims were allegedly sold to criminal networks and forced into online scamming operations, officials said on Wednesday.
According to an FIA deputy director, the group consisted of two suspects based in Cambodia and four operating from Pakistan. They targeted educated youth by posting fake overseas job advertisements on social media.
The suspects lured victims with offers of call center jobs, particularly targeting individuals with computer skills. After collecting money from victims, the group facilitated their travel to Cambodia.
Upon arrival, victims were reportedly detained and coerced into working for online fraud networks. Officials said those who refused to comply were subjected to violence and intimidation.
“Each victim generated around $2,000 for the criminal network,” an FIA official said.
Authorities revealed that the gang had already trafficked over 100 Pakistanis before being exposed.
The FIA said investigations are underway to identify additional suspects and rescue affected individuals still trapped abroad. Officials have urged citizens to verify overseas job offers and avoid unregistered agents.