Duncan Okindo arrived at Bangkok airport on a sunny December evening, filled with excitement and hope for a new job opportunity.
After struggling to secure stable employment in Kenya, he was thrilled about a customer care position in Thailand that promised a salary of Sh150,000.
However, his dreams quickly turned into a harsh reality.
The troubles began on December 16, 2024, when Duncan sought help from an employment agency.
Initially, he wanted a job in Qatar or Dubai, but the agency informed him that there were no openings in those countries.
Instead, they convinced him to accept a position in Thailand, claiming it was a great opportunity. He paid Sh200,000 to the agency, believing it was a loan for his job placement.
Upon arriving in Bangkok, Duncan faced a shocking and grim reality.
He soon discovered that the job he was promised was nothing like what he had expected.
The working conditions were brutal, with 20-hour shifts at computer terminals. Many workers, including Duncan, were forced to sleep on the floor without proper mattresses or blankets.
The situation worsened as they faced physical abuse and threats while being compelled to scam people through online platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook.
Duncan quickly realized he had been caught in a scheme of exploitation.
After undergoing medical tests upon arrival, he was assigned to a Ugandan man who was supposed to be his leader.
However, he found out that everyone was given fake names and that they were trapped in a criminal operation.
“I wasn’t hired for customer care; I was here for scamming,” he said, expressing his shock and disillusionment.
One early morning, Duncan was abruptly awakened by a knock at the door.
Two women led him and other workers to vehicles, taking them to a nearby river.
They were told it marked the boundary between Thailand and Myanmar, adding another layer of fear to their situation.
At the Bangkok airport, Kenyan men and a woman collected passports and luggage, ushering Duncan into a waiting van. He recalls the moment vividly:
“The food was some chips with a burger and soda. I remember feeling confused and afraid.”
Now back in Kenya, Duncan is working to rebuild his life while processing the trauma he endured.
He remains determined to recover the Sh200,000 he lost to the agent who deceived him.
His experience has inspired him to advocate for others, urging job seekers to verify that employment agencies are approved by the National Employment Authority (NEA).
By Newshub