Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Co-operation, says 14 South Africans (SA) detained in Thailand are due to be deported to SA in the coming days.
The citizens were allegedly offered information technology jobs after being approached by a recruiter from SA who promoted work in the Information Technology sector. Families of the detainees maintain that the employment arrangements turned out to be very different from what had been promised.
One relative, speaking on behalf of a detained family member, claims the group was prevented from contacting people outside Thailand and was held in poor and degrading conditions. The family described cramped cells, limited access to basic hygiene, and little information about legal options in Thailand.
Phiri says the SA embassy in Bangkok, Thailand, has been in regular contact with Thai officials and has provided consular support as required under international guidelines. He added that the department is assisting with travel documents in Thailand and co-ordination with authorities in SA to receive the group.
The department has cautioned job seekers to confirm the background of recruiters and the terms of contracts before travelling to Thailand or any other destination, noting that cases of misleading offers continue to place South Africans at risk abroad.
–ChannelAfrica–
