In a harrowing tale of betrayal and survival, a Malaysian man, identified only as Law, was recently left heartbroken and stunned to discover that his kidnapping in Bangkok had been orchestrated by a friend of ten years.
Law, 37, recounted the distressing incident during a Facebook live session, revealing that his ordeal began when he was unexpectedly contacted by his old friend in April. Despite not having spoken for a long time, the friend extended a seemingly generous invitation.
"He invited me for a meal, which was supposed to be on him. Then, he invited me to Bangkok for a religious festival and a holiday, and the best part was, he said the trip was on him," Law shared. Eager for a reunion and a vacation, Law accepted the offer without much hesitation, even though he had not secured a return ticket.
Upon arriving in Bangkok on May 7, Law's friend picked him up and offered him a bottle of water. Shortly after drinking it, Law lost consciousness. When he regained consciousness, he found himself in a nightmarish situation far from the promised holiday.
"I saw four men from China and a Malaysian man. One of them demanded RM50,000," Law said. He was no longer in Bangkok but had been taken to Burma. Over the following days, Law endured severe physical abuse. He was beaten with sticks and metal bars and suffered cuts on his neck and arm. To his horror, he discovered he was not the only victim; several others were also trapped for the same reason.
While Law did not detail the exact means of his escape, he mentioned a crucial encounter that aided his survival. "I met a Burmese soldier who could speak BM. He protected me for two weeks before I was brought home by representatives of the Malaysian Humanitarian Organisation (MHO)," he explained.
Law safely returned to Kuala Lumpur on July 9. Upon his return, he attempted to contact his friend, but the number was no longer in service. This incident bears striking similarities to the plight of job scam victims who have been kidnapped by syndicates in recent years.
Law's experience is a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk behind seemingly innocent invitations and the betrayal that can come from the least expected sources. His story serves as a cautionary tale for others to remain vigilant and cautious, even when dealing with old friends.