In a significant development, the Sri Lankan government has successfully repatriated 27 nationals, including eight women, who were held in a human trafficking camp in Myanmar.
The group returned on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 405, which landed at Katunayake this afternoon. Upon arrival, the victims were escorted to their homes under special security arrangements.
The individuals had been trapped in illegal cybercrime operations, linked to human trafficking networks. Officials confirmed that these operations had exploited the victims for various illicit activities.
Despite this successful operation, authorities reported that 14 Sri Lankans remain in similar trafficking camps in Myanmar, with efforts underway to secure their release. Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath has directed relevant authorities to expedite the rescue of these individuals.
The coordinated efforts for this operation involved Sri Lankan and Thai diplomatic missions, Myanmar and Thai authorities, and several international organizations. Ven. Maligawila Assaji Thero, who represents the victims’ families, also supported the mission, highlighting the community's collective efforts in ensuring the safe return of the nationals.
This marks the latest success in a series of repatriations by the Sri Lankan government. Since November 1, 2024, a total of 63 Sri Lankans have been rescued from trafficking camps in Myanmar. This includes a previous repatriation of 32 individuals on November 25. Earlier this year, 8 individuals were rescued in April, followed by another 20 in August.
The Sri Lankan government has pledged to continue its efforts to combat human trafficking and ensure the safe return of those still trapped in such camps abroad.
