Job Seekers Deceived by Fraudulent Brokers
Approximately 250 individuals were left stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Saturday after being promised employment opportunities in Australia and Israel by job brokers. The disappointed job seekers reported that they collectively paid around 12 million baht in broker fees.
Formal Complaints Filed with Authorities
On Monday, fifty of the affected individuals took action by filing formal complaints with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). One victim, Narongchai, 42, disclosed that they had paid between 60,000 to 120,000 baht each to a woman known as “Ms. Aoy” to secure various job placements in Australia.
Promises of Work in Israel
Other victims, who also filed complaints with the airport police on Saturday, claimed they were promised jobs in Israel. Ms. Aoy appeared at the airport and stated that she had transferred the victims’ funds to another individual named “Ms. Fa,” who allegedly worked at a foreign embassy and claimed to facilitate overseas job placements for Thais.
Ms. Aoy’s Claims and Victims’ Frustration
Ms. Aoy assured the victims that she would present the visas she arranged for them to the Crime Suppression Division on Monday to prove her innocence. However, as of Monday morning, the victims were unable to contact her, exacerbating their frustration and concern.
Government Response and Warnings
Government deputy spokesman Karom Ponpornklang announced that the Department of Employment and the Ministry of Labour were assisting victims in filing their complaints with the CIB’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division. The Ministry has also instructed the airport labor checkpoint to closely monitor job brokers for illegal activities.Karom emphasized that Thai citizens seeking work abroad must do so legally and should thoroughly vet brokers before handing over any money. He reiterated that overseas job agencies must be approved by the Department of Labour to ensure legitimacy.
A Call for Vigilance Among Job Seekers
This incident serves as a stark reminder for job seekers about the importance of verifying the legitimacy of job offers and brokers. As authorities investigate this scam, it highlights the need for greater awareness and regulation to protect individuals from fraudulent schemes targeting those seeking better employment opportunities abroad.
