Fake Talent Scout Lures Young Woman to Southeast Asia in Acting Job Scam

On October 14, 2026, Beijing Tongzhou police received an urgent distress call. A mother reported that her 20-year-old daughter Xiao Na had flown abroad alone and could not be contacted. Police investigation revealed this was a cross-border entrapment scheme disguised as a 'star talent' recruitment opportunity. After approximately 24 hours of emergency rescue efforts, Xiao Na safely returned to Beijing.

The trap began earlier in October when Xiao Na was approached by a stranger while shopping. The man, identified as Xie Moumou, complimented her appearance and invited her to dinner. During the meal, Xie claimed extensive connections in the entertainment industry, particularly in Southeast Asia, and showed photos of himself with various 'celebrities.' He promised to help Xiao Na develop her career in Southeast Asia and meet many stars.

Under his persistent persuasion, the naive young woman agreed to his invitation. Xie then booked her flight from Beijing to a certain country on October 14.

At 11:30 am on October 14, police received the mother's alarm. They immediately checked flight information and confirmed Xiao Na was on a flight from Beijing via Hong Kong to the destination country. The plane had just landed minutes before police made contact.

Officers urgently called Xiao Na just before she was about to clear customs. She confirmed she had landed and was about to meet Xie outside customs. Police warned her this was likely a scam and instructed her not to clear customs, to find a safe location, and to add them on WeChat.

After verifying the officer's identity and receiving case examples of similar kidnappings, Xiao Na reluctantly provided Xie's WeChat account. Police discovered the account had no registration information and its IP address was located abroad, indicating major suspicion.

Despite initial disbelief, Xiao Na finally agreed to return home after about an hour of persuasion. Police arranged a flight departing at 11 pm from the foreign country. She safely landed in Beijing at 10:25 am on October 15, less than 24 hours after the initial alarm.

Beijing Tongzhou police remind the public to stay vigilant against invitations from strangers promising 'high-paying jobs,' 'entertainment development,' or 'overseas celebrity meetings.' Do not easily trust sweet talk from strangers, whether online or on the street, to avoid falling into overseas fraud or even human trafficking traps.