The Ugandan government said on Thursday, May 23, that 23 of its citizens, who were rescued from human traffickers in Myanmar, have been brought back home, Xinhua reports.

The group, who had been held in Tachileik, Myanmar, after being lured with promises of high-paying jobs, arrived at Entebbe International Airport on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

"They were subsequently forced into cryptocurrency scams and smuggled across borders," the ministry added.

Vincent Bagiire, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, warned Ugandans to be cautious about unclear overseas labor schemes.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms its dedication to protecting Ugandan citizens abroad and addressing human trafficking with the seriousness it deserves," he said.

"With collective effort and unwavering commitment, we can prevent and manage human trafficking, safeguarding our children, youth, and vulnerable populations."