Two U.S. nationals who escaped a secretive doomsday group in Fiji have stated they are willing to go back to the island nation to give evidence in hopes of reviving a dormant human trafficking case. They left the country after enduring years of mistreatment, including forced labor and abuse, according to their accounts.
The women filed separate reports with local authorities in late 2024 and early 2025. One of them detailed how she was ordered to provide free beauty services, such as facials and massages, to influential local figures while under the group’s control. Among those she named is a former prime minister, who was later convicted on separate charges in 2024. Another meant official mentioned in the complaint has since died.
The organization, which consists mainly of ethnic Koreans and has about 300 members, has used political ties to grow into a major business player in Fiji, according to prior reports. The women said they are no longer afraid and want to assist police in pursuing legal action. One noted that her cousin might accompany her to try to also rescue their mothers who remain involved with the group.
Legal representatives for the group have denied all allegations, arguing that no evidence has been presented to support the claims. The case was referred to prosecutors last year, but no charges have been filed yet. Fiji faces a deadline to show progress on human trafficking issues or risk losing millions in U.S. aid.