Colombo, Nov. 19 -- Sri Lanka has ordered a probe after a group of Sri Lankan women were auctioned off as sex workers in Oman

The group of women was taken to Oman promising jobs. However, they were auctioned and pushed into the sex trade.

Foreign Employment Promotion Minister Manusha Nanayakkara told Parliament that most of the victims were taken to the Middle East on tourist or visit visas.

"An extensive investigation has been started to arrest those involved in the racket including fake agents, government officials at the Immigration Department, and those working at the airport," Nanayakkara said.

According to the Minister, the Sri Lankan women were taken to Oman via Dubai and sold to various workplaces where they were harassed.

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