A Rwandan man’s dream job abroad turned into a trafficking nightmare, exposing crypto scam syndicates exploiting African youth in Southeast Asia.
The Bait: A Lucrative Job Offer
In late 2023, Fred Mugabo (name changed) received a too-good-to-be-true offer: over $2,500/month, free housing, meals, internet, and commissions—to work in sales for a Chinese company.
The offer came from a former university acquaintance. Fred trusted him. That trust would soon cost him dearly.
The Trap Unfolds: A Journey to Laos
Fred paid for his own visa and plane ticket after being assured it was just a favor.
He was introduced to a Rwandan “agent” and another traveler for companionship.
Once in China, Fred was funneled from Guangzhou to Xishuangbanna, then on to Boten, before crossing into Laos—all under the guidance of intermediaries.
The Nightmare Begins
Upon arrival in Laos:
His passport was confiscated.
Promised salary dropped from $2,500 to $1,000—barely paid.
He wasn’t working in marketing, but instead was forced into a crypto scam syndicate.
How the Scam Works Fred and others were made to:
– Pose as investors or financial advisors on social media.
– Lure victims into investing large sums (sometimes $100,000+) into fake crypto schemes.
– Push two different scam models, targeting international clients.
Punishment & Fear
– Fail to bring a victim? $5/day deducted from salary.
– Fail for 3 months? You work for free.
Underperformers were often sold to other scam syndicates—especially in Myanmar, known for harsher conditions and forced overtime.
The Hidden Hell
1. These scam outfits are registered as legal companies in Laos.
2. During government visits, they stage clean offices and hide the foreign workers (many without valid documents).
3. Victims include not only Rwandans but also Nigerians, Kenyans, South Africans, and Afghans.
Government Intervention The Rwandan government is working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM):
✓ 10 citizens repatriated from Myanmar so far.
✓ 5 more in progress.
✓ Real number of victims remains unknown.
Rising Human Trafficking in Africa
With over 100 Rwandans trafficked in three years, these cases highlight how youth unemployment, online job scams, and crypto hype are weaponized to lure victims into modern-day digital slavery.
Discover more from DiutoCoinNews
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
