Human-trafficking crisis: captive Hongkonger tells how trip to Thailand turned into 3-month nightmare under forced labour

Anecdotal evidence shows many scam victims were lured to Thailand with the promise of a well-paid job they saw advertised online. Lawyers and NGO staff have paid close attention since the crisis – possibly the worst to affect the safety of Hongkongers overseas for a decade – started to unfold. — SCMP

A week after the plight of Hongkongers trafficked and held captive in South-East Asia came to light, not much has changed for John, who is still stranded in Myanmar.

Escape is not an option for the 30-something, whose life took a dramatic turn for the worse when a trip to Thailand to catch up with an old friend turned into a nightmare.