The Outlaw Ocean S1 E3: Slavery At Sea
Oct 10, 2022
Exploring the hidden world of sea slavery in the South China Sea, detailing the brutal conditions faced by migrant workers on fishing vessels. From overfishing leading to abuse and fish-laundering, to the harrowing experiences of enslaved men like Lang Long, the episode sheds light on the global scourge of sea slavery.
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Firsthand Boarding Of A Sea Slave Vessel
- Ian boarded a distant-water Thai fishing vessel and found dozens of barefoot, underage-looking Cambodian boys working in goo, with rats and exposed hooks everywhere.
- He witnessed brutal conditions, missing fingers, infections, and 20-hour workdays with no med kits or protection.
Exhaustion, Drugs, And Death At Sea
- Crew members described working four to five days without sleep, using stimulants and coffee until they vomited, and watching people die and be thrown overboard.
- They reported drug use to stay awake and fatal exhaustion from relentless shifts.
Debt Traps Begin In Karaoke Bars
- Traffickers house recruited men above karaoke bars that double as brothels, then push them into debt by encouraging spending with trafficked women.
- The resulting added debt traps migrants further into bonded labor on ships.