In a significant achievement for investigative journalism in India, Ayush Tiwari, a reporter with Scroll, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) award in the category of investigative journalism. This honor comes in recognition of his compelling investigative series that delves deep into the dark world of cybercrime, particularly focusing on the operations of Chinese crime syndicates across Southeast Asia.

Tiwari’s award-winning series, which was published in January and February of 2025, uncovers the intricate and often harrowing world of cyber scams that have ensnared countless individuals. Through meticulous research and on-ground reporting, he shed light on how these syndicates operate scam centers in countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. These centers, often referred to as ‘scam compounds,’ are equipped with advanced technology and staffed by thousands of people, many of whom are lured from India with false promises of legitimate employment.

His investigation reveals a disturbing cycle of exploitation; the individuals making scam calls are often themselves victims of trafficking. Lured abroad by enticing job offers, they find themselves trapped in a web of deceit, forced to engage in fraudulent activities that target their fellow citizens back in India. Tiwari’s series intricately tracks the journeys of these victims, exposing not only the impact of cyber fraud on their lives but also the broader implications for families who lose their life savings to these scams.

The jury from the Asian College of Journalism praised Tiwari’s work, noting their admiration for the comprehensive nature of his reporting and his relentless pursuit of truth across multiple countries. They highlighted how he managed to weave together the narrative of the scam industry while also portraying the human side of this tragedy. Tiwari’s ability to connect with the stories of the victims adds a poignant layer to the investigation, making it not just a report on cybercrime, but a heartfelt account of suffering and resilience.

In the final segment of his series, Tiwari takes readers to the heart of the cyber scam industry, providing a stark view of the conditions under which these operations run. His work encourages a dialogue around the urgent need for awareness and action against such crimes, emphasizing that the victims of these scams are often trapped in a system that preys on their desperation and hopes.

As cybercrime continues to rise globally, Tiwari’s investigation serves as a crucial reminder of the human cost behind these crimes. His reporting not only brings attention to a pressing issue affecting countless individuals but also highlights the importance of responsible journalism in exposing injustices and advocating for change.