Navy warns retired military personnel not to fall prey to human traffickers
A human trafficking scheme targeting retired military personnel from Sri Lanka’s armed forces has been uncovered .
The individuals who have fallen prey were deceived into believing that they would receive significant benefits, including high salaries and citizenship, by joining Russian and Ukrainian forces. They have been sent on tourist visas and subsequently deployed for frontline combat in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Former military personnel, lured to Russia and Ukraine on tourist visas, are being recruited into mercenary forces without being given the promised salaries or benefits. It is reported that they face extreme weather, minimal support infrastructure and even without communication means. Reports also indicate that some had met with serious injuries and even fatalities in the harsh war zones.
The Navy urges retired naval personnel not to consider accepting such opportunities, as they would jeopardize their hard-earned privileges and assets they have received for their dedicated service to the motherland.
Moreover, the Navy urges the public to reach out to Navy Headquarters at 0117192142 or 0117192250 if they possess any information about individuals, active-duty military personnel or any other person involved or aiding such activities.
