Chinese High School Student Lured to Myanmar by Fake Job Scam

According to his mother, Yang, she had been trying to reach her son since July 5, but his phone had been unreachable. It wasn't until July 10, when she unexpectedly got through to his phone, that she realized something was amiss. A man with a Myanmar accent answered, claiming that the phone's SIM card had been given to him by a friend, but he had no knowledge of Peng's whereabouts. The sudden and brief contact has raised more questions than answers, and the family, along with the investigators, is eager to understand the full extent of what has happened to Peng Yuxuan and how to ensure his safe return.

Peng's journey began on June 28, when he traveled to Xi'an, where he spent time with his friend and classmate, Xiao Jia. On July 1, Peng flew to Kunming, claiming to have a job lined up through a distant aunt. However, it was later discovered that this "aunt" was actually someone he had met online. As Peng continued on his journey, he sent occasional updates to Xiao Jia, including photos and location checks, but his messages became increasingly vague and secretive. He sent a boarding pass for his flight to Kunming, and a message saying that someone had given him 500 yuan to stay in a hotel. On July 2, Peng sent a message saying he was on his way to his next destination and that his job involved moving cargo.

Xiao Jia revealed that Peng repeatedly assured her that he was free and safe, and that he was earning money. However, when Xiao Jia asked him about the details of his job, Peng refused to answer and told her not to inform his parents. On the night of July 3, Peng and Xiao Jia had a video call, during which Peng said he would start work the next day and had ordered takeout. The video showed Peng sitting in a double room, but he was alone, and he seemed to be in a good mood. The last message Peng sent to Xiao Jia was on July 4, at around 12 pm, saying he would be going to his accommodation later. After that, Xiao Jia lost contact with Peng, and Peng's mother reported his disappearance to the local police.

An investigation has been launched by the local police in both Shaanxi and Yunnan provinces, with authorities working to determine how Peng crossed the border and what his current situation is. The police have confirmed that Peng is no longer in China, but in Myanmar, and are currently working with the Chinese embassy in Myanmar to locate him and ensure his safe return. The case has sparked concern among the public about the dangers of online scams and the vulnerability of young people to such schemes, prompting a thorough examination of the case by law enforcement agencies. As the situation continues to unfold, concerns regarding human trafficking and cross-border exploitation have been raised, and the family and investigators are eagerly awaiting any new information that may lead to Peng Yuxuan's safe return.