LAHORE — A group of young Pakistanis seeking employment abroad have reportedly been kidnapped in Cambodia, raising concerns over human trafficking and fraudulent overseas recruitment targeting Pakistani youth.
Tahir Rasool, a resident of Lahore’s Babu Sabu area, claimed that around 10 Pakistanis were held against their will while searching for work opportunities. He recorded a video from a hiding spot in Cambodia, stating that he managed to escape and was now seeking immediate help from Pakistani authorities.
According to Rasool, he and a friend traveled from Lahore to Malaysia on December 22 on visit visas before heading to Cambodia on December 25. Three days after arriving, they were offered jobs through Telegram. Believing the offers were genuine, they provided personal documents to a company, unaware that it was part of an organized scam.
Rasool explained that the so-called “Black Company” confiscated their passports under the pretext of arranging work visas. Instead, they were locked in a room with no freedom of movement. He alleged that 10 more Pakistanis are being held at the same location and are subjected to physical and mental abuse.
The victim said that kidnappers used fear and violence to control them. He shared his passport and CNIC numbers with authorities to verify his identity and assist in rescue efforts. Despite emailing the Pakistani Embassy in Cambodia, Rasool claimed no response had been received.
“My life is in serious danger. Please help me,” Rasool said in the video, appealing directly to Pakistani authorities. His family in Lahore has also urged the government to intervene immediately and ensure his safe return.
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This incident highlights the growing risks faced by Pakistanis seeking jobs abroad through unverified online platforms and messaging apps. Experts warn that youth must exercise caution when accepting overseas work offers to avoid falling victim to scams and human trafficking.
