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The Indian government’s investigative body reports that it has uncovered a significant global network involved in trafficking humans and deceiving them with false job opportunities in order to send them to the war between Russia and Ukraine.
On Thursday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) from India carried out searches in seven different cities, including the country’s capital city of New Delhi, at a total of 15 locations.
The raids occurred as there were increasing reports in the media about Indian citizens being unknowingly recruited to join the Russian army for their invasion of Ukraine. This was due to them moving to other countries in response to job advertisements for “army helpers”.
A spokesperson from the CBI stated that two Indian individuals have lost their lives, including one who passed away on Wednesday. Additionally, approximately 35 others are reportedly engaged in the ongoing conflict.
According to local media reports, the federal investigations agency has retrieved a total of £471,500 during their search, including evidence such as incriminating documents, electronic devices like laptops, mobile phones, desktop computers, and CCTV footage.
Investigations are currently in progress and some individuals have been apprehended for interrogation at different sites. To date, approximately 35 cases of victims being transported overseas have been confirmed. The authorities are working to determine the identities of additional victims of human trafficking. The investigation is ongoing, according to a spokesperson from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The investigation was initiated after a preliminary accusation, referred to as a First Information Report (FIR), was filed on 6 March. The report, mentioned by The Times of India, identified specific private visa consulting companies and agents who were allegedly involved in human trafficking.
On Wednesday, the Indian embassy in Russia officially reported the unfortunate passing of Mohammed Asfan, a clothing vendor from Hyderabad. Asfan went to Russia through Dubai in November in search of employment, but his family asserts that he was deceived by an agent from the Middle East who failed to inform him that he would be sent to fight on the front lines, where he ultimately lost his life.
In February, the Indian government advised its citizens to refrain from involvement in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, they appealed to Russian officials to promptly release Indian citizens.
The Indian foreign ministry stated on Friday that it has addressed the issue with Russian authorities, urging them to promptly release the Indian nationals involved.
The statement urges Indian citizens to be cautious of offers from agents promising support jobs with the Russian Army as it poses potential danger and risk to one’s life.
Source: independent.co.uk
