Two boys freed after being trafficked to jewellery factory
Summary:
August 2026
Two teenage boys who had been trapped in forced labour at a jewellery factory have been brought to safety following an operation led by local authorities and supported by IJM's local partner.
The boys had been trafficked from their hometown to a gold jewellery factory, where they were forced to work 13 to 14 hours a day. One boy had been there for around six months. The other had endured the abuse for nearly two years.
Surrounded by welding equipment and dangerous machinery, the boys worked with high heat, molten metal, and harsh chemicals. They slept in the same room where they worked and were constantly monitored by CCTV. Authorities later confirmed allegations that the factory owner and his wife physically and verbally abused the boys when mistakes were made.
IJM's local partner first identified the factory during surveillance work in the area. Because the boys were never allowed to leave the compound, gathering evidence of the abuse was extremely difficult. For five months, the team worked persistently to build enough intelligence to support an operation to bring the boys to safety. During this time, IJM provided technical expertise and strategic support to help plan the operation.
Authorities eventually gained access to the factory, confirmed the alleged exploitation, and brought the boys to safety. Within 48 hours, both boys received Release Certificates, formally recognising their freedom. Authorities also helped them open bank accounts so they could receive government rehabilitation benefits.
IJM's team in the boys' hometown will continue supporting local authorities as they help the boys recover and rebuild their lives.
Forced labour in jewellery manufacturing remains a significant concern in the region, and IJM and its partners believe many more children may still be trapped in exploitation. But there is hope.
Following the successful operation, an IJM leader shared: “The partner staff have been persistent in their approach in working on this case and did not give up hope, even when there was no light seen…This is just the beginning of many more cases in this industry.”
Learn more about forced labour trafficking and how you can be part of ending it.