Sri Lankan Ambassador in Myanmar, Janaka Banda, has initiated discussions concerning Sri Lankans trapped in a criminal area in Myanmar, negotiating with a terrorist group. The Ambassador revealed that talks were initiated following an agreement with the Minister of Home Affairs.
In the cyber crime area of Myanmar, 56 youths were forcibly detained and the Sri Lankan embassy, located approximately 25 km away from Miaedy city, is actively working towards securing the release of these individuals.
Ambassador Janaka Banda emphasized that discussions have taken place with the army government, addressing the critical situation. He highlighted that not only Sri Lankans but young people from various Asian countries, including India, have been trapped in the Cybermate area, leading to military operations in some instances.
The Red Cross and Myanmar’s embassy have intervened in the past, resulting in the release of 37 individuals. However, Ambassador Banda noted that certain activities, utilizing official embassy vehicles and the official residence, have been reported.
Media reports have also surfaced, alleging that two Sri Lankan youths were accused in the past year, taken to Thailand, and reportedly sold for $5,000.
