Filipino alleges unpaid work, restricted movement at scam call centre

BAU: A Filipino man has alleged that he was forced to work for about two months at a suspected scam call centre here without receiving his wages and was restricted from leaving the premises.

Bau police chief Supt Mohd Haide A. Rahman said the 33-year-old was brought to the district to work at a call centre believed to be involved in fraudulent activities.

“According to initial investigations, the man worked from 6pm to 6am for about two months.

“He allegedly did not receive any salary throughout the period, apart from RM300 in advance which was sent to his family in the Philippines.

“The man also claimed he was not allowed to leave the house and faced restrictions on his movement and use of his mobile phone while staying at the premises,” he said.

However, further investigations also found that the man had previously been arrested with 13 other co-workers on Aug 30 and remanded for five days.

He was released on Sept 5 and taken to a house in Hui Sing, Kuching.

Mohd Haide said that while staying there, the man had access to a phone, was allowed to leave the house and had access to the keys to the house and gate.

He was not required to work while staying at the Kuching premises.

“Police have recorded his statement to obtain further information regarding his working conditions and the alleged exploitation,” he said.

The man has since been placed at a safe house provided by the Philippine Embassy in Kuching for his protection and welfare.

The Philippine Embassy, Interpol and relevant agencies involved in protecting trafficking victims have also been informed.

Mohd Haide said that investigation is ongoing and authorities would examine all statements and information obtained before taking further action against any parties.

The case is being investigated under Section 12 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (ATIPSOM).