A group of young Pakistanis seeking employment abroad have allegedly been kidnapped in Cambodia after falling victim to an online job scam, raising fresh concerns over human trafficking and fraudulent overseas recruitment targeting Pakistani youth.
Tahir Rasool, a resident of the Babu Sabu area, has claimed that around 10 Pakistanis have been kidnapped in Cambodia while searching for work. He has appealed to Pakistani authorities for immediate intervention, saying his life is in serious danger.
Rasool recorded a video of his ordeal, claiming that he managed to escape the custody and sneaked into an under-construction building next door, where he has been hiding since then. He says he got a mobile phone from one of the Bangladeshi construction workers at the site so he could record the video and send to the authorities back home in Pakistan.
According to the victim, he and a friend left Lahore on December 22 for Malaysia on a visit visa. From there, they traveled to Cambodia, arriving on December 25.
Rasool said that three days after arriving in Cambodia, the two were offered a job through Telegram. Trusting the offer, he and his friend agreed to proceed, unaware that it was part of a well-organized scam.
Soon after, a so-called “Black company” took their passports under the pretext of arranging visas. Instead, the company locked them in a room and cut off their freedom of movement.
More Pakistanis held, torture alleged
The victim revealed that 10 more Pakistanis are also being held by the kidnappers at the same location. He alleged that all detainees are being subjected to physical and mental torture.
Rasool said the kidnappers are using fear and violence to control them, adding that conditions are worsening with each passing day.
His passport and CNIC number have been revealed. These details have been shared with relevant authorities to help verify his identity and assist in rescue efforts.
No response from embassy so far
According to Rasool, an email was sent to the Pakistani Embassy in Cambodia seeking help, but no response has been received so far. Frustrated and fearful, the victim has made a direct appeal to Pakistani authorities, urging them to act before it is too late.
“My life is in serious danger. Please help me,” Tahir Rasool said in his video message. His family in Lahore has also urged the government to step in immediately and secure his safe return.
The incident highlights growing risks faced by Pakistani youth seeking overseas jobs through unverified online platforms and messaging apps.
