In a recent development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has brought to light a human trafficking network, with two Russia-based agents currently under scrutiny for their involvement in pushing Indians into the conflict zone in Ukraine. Officials disclosed this information on Friday following the bust of the trafficking ring by the CBI the previous day.
The agents, identified as Christina and Moinuddin Chippa from Rajasthan, allegedly operated in Russia, luring Indian youths with enticing job prospects. These individuals were promised lucrative opportunities but were instead coerced into fighting alongside armed forces, with their passports confiscated upon arrival in Russia.
According to CBI officials, the investigation has expanded to include 17 visa consultancy companies, their proprietors, and agents spread across India. Charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal conspiracy, cheating, and human trafficking, have been filed against them.
The CBI's probe revealed that the accused agents trafficked Indian nationals to Russia under false pretenses, promising employment in roles such as security guards, helpers, and military personnel. These individuals were charged exorbitant amounts illegally. Moreover, students were deceived with admissions to dubious private universities in Russia, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by local agents.
Upon arrival in Russia, the victims were subjected to combat training and forced to don Russian Army uniforms before being deployed to the frontlines in the Russia-Ukraine conflict zone against their will. The CBI FIR stated that the lives of these individuals were jeopardized, as they were placed in grave danger without their consent.
Following the filing of the FIR, the CBI conducted searches across 13 locations in Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram, Mumbai, Ambala, Chandigarh, Madurai, and Chennai. The investigation revealed 35 instances where individuals were enticed with false promises of high-paying jobs via social media and local contacts.
Several visa consultancy firms and their directors, including 24x7 RAS Overseas Foundation in Delhi, O S D Bros Travels and Visa Services Pvt Ltd in Mumbai, Adventure Visa Services Pvt Ltd in Chandigarh, and Baba Vlogs Overseas Recruitment Solutions Pvt Ltd in Dubai, have been implicated in the trafficking network.
The CBI spokesperson emphasized the organized nature of the human trafficking network, which operates across multiple states in India. During the searches, cash exceeding Rs 50 lakh, along with incriminating documents and electronic devices such as laptops, mobile phones, desktops, and CCTV footage, were seized. Additionally, several suspects have been detained for questioning at various locations.
The investigation has revealed that some victims suffered severe injuries in the conflict zone. The CBI continues its efforts to dismantle the trafficking network and bring those responsible to justice.
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