Three men of Indian origin have been charged in the United States for holding a 20-year-old student from India captive and subjecting him to months of physical abuse and forced labor. The victim, who was rescued by police officers in St. Charles County, Missouri, is currently being treated at a hospital for multiple injuries including bone fractures and lacerations.
The three defendants, Venkatesh R. Sattaru (35), Sravanvarma Penumetcha (23), and Nikhil V. Penmatsa (27), are facing charges related to abuse through forced labor, domestic assault, and kidnapping. Sattaru, who is identified as the victim’s cousin and visa sponsor, is also facing charges of human trafficking and contributing to human trafficking through misuse of documentation.
According to County Prosecuting Attorney Joseph McCulloch, the victim was forced to work at three different homes owned by Sattaru in Defiance, Dardenne Prairie, and O’Fallon. He was subjected to physical abuse, including being beaten with fists, electrical wiring, and PVC pipes. The victim was also starved and confined to an unfinished basement, with limited access to the public and restrooms.
McCulloch described the treatment of the victim as “absolutely inhumane and unconscionable.” He also revealed that the three suspects are wealthy individuals with political connections in India.
The rescue operation was initiated after a concerned citizen reported the victim’s situation to the police. McCulloch emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activities, stating, “If you see something, say something.”
The three defendants are currently being held without bond at the St Charles County Jail. The case highlights the issue of human trafficking and forced labor, and serves as a reminder of the need for increased awareness and vigilance in combating such crimes.
The Indian student’s ordeal is a stark reminder that slavery and human trafficking still exist in the modern world. It is important for authorities and communities to work together to identify and eradicate such heinous acts of exploitation.
