September 2022

CHENNAI, INDIA — 22-year-old Aadav* was reunited with his parents in Tamil Nadu two years after he was trafficked to a drug den in Malaysia.

In early 2020, a recruiter approached Aadav with a job opportunity in a Malaysian temple that would pay 35,000 rupees (approximately $652 AUD) per month – a large amount for those living in poverty. Aadav was met with false promises when he arrived in Malaysia. Together with three other men, he was trapped in a small apartment, forced to pack drugs, and subjected to constant physical abuse without adequate food or rest.

When Aadav’s family discovered the truth, they filed a police complaint. Local authorities immediately worked with their counterparts in Malaysia to locate the traffickers and four victims.

On 25 May, the Malaysian police staged a rescue operation which led to the arrest of one perpetrator and rescue of the four men, including Aadav. Aadav was taken to a government shelter for protection until his case hearing was completed in August 2022.

IJM’s teams in Malaysia and South Asia worked together to help Aadav return home to Tamil Nadu. IJM staff received Aadav at the airport on 14 September and drove him to see his parents, Kannan and Muthu, for a joyful reunion after more than two years of fear. We also helped connect Aadav’s family with district government officials, who will provide ongoing support.

IJM’s state office in Tamil Nadu will work with our local NGO partner to support Aadav’s rehabilitation and reintegration. He’s hoping to focus on computer skills training to earn a dignified living in his home town. 

Aadav bravely told officials about other victims from Tamil Nadu who he had seen in Malaysia and expressed his determination to bring these victims home. He shared:

“I am grateful that the government collaborated with non-governmental organisations to safely repatriate me. There are still many people who are trapped in dangerous situations, and the government must take appropriate measures to bring them home safely.”

IJM commended government agencies in both countries for their diligent efforts to protect Aadav and help him return home safely. We look forward to partnering with these officials and others who are proactively protecting vulnerable people from violence. 

*pseudonym used