TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — National Immigration Agency officers rescued five Thai nationals from a human trafficking ring that allegedly lured workers to Taiwan with false job offers.
The NIA's Kaohsiung Specialized Operations Brigade said Wednesday the group used Facebook and other social media platforms to recruit rural Thais with promises of high-paying jobs, per CNA. Some victims sold property or took on debt to pay labor broker fees, only to be sent to illegal jobs across Taiwan.
Many victims did not speak Mandarin and overstayed their visas, making them vulnerable to exploitation. The ring allegedly confiscated their passports and restricted their freedom of movement.
Victims were forced to work long hours for low pay without days off, according to CNA. Some lived in cramped truck beds or makeshift mountain shelters with few basic amenities.
After months of investigation, a task force led by the Kaohsiung Brigade and Miaoli police raided a mountain farm in Miaoli County. The operation rescued five Thai victims and seized 47 passports.
Authorities estimated the group's illegal profits at nearly NT$4 million (US$136,000), CNA reported. In March, prosecutors referred alleged ringleader Chen (陳) and 21 others for prosecution on suspicion of violating anti-trafficking, employment, and related laws.
Following the rescue, social workers provided legal assistance and helped victims obtain work permits and residency status. Authorities said the victims only fully understood the extent of their exploitation after securing legal jobs and receiving proper wages.
