By Trend News Line 2024-05-08 08:19:06.
**Arrests Made in Human Trafficking Ring Linked to War Zone**
In a recent development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended two individuals in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, for their alleged involvement in a human trafficking operation that has led Indians into the conflict zone between Russia and Ukraine. The arrested individuals, identified as Arun and Yesudas Junior, are facing charges under sections 370, 420, and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code. This brings the total number of arrests in this case to four, with two other suspects, Nijil Jobi Bensam and Anthony Michael Elangovan, already in judicial custody after being apprehended on April 24.
**CBI’s Statement on the Case**
The CBI disclosed that on April 6, 2024, they dismantled a significant human trafficking ring that was operating nationwide. This ring specifically targeted vulnerable individuals with promises of lucrative job opportunities abroad. The traffickers operated as a well-organized network, using social media platforms such as YouTube and local contacts to lure Indian nationals with high-paying positions in Russia. Once recruited, the victims were trained for combat roles and forced into frontline bases in the war-torn region between Russia and Ukraine, putting their lives at grave risk. Several victims also sustained severe injuries in the conflict zone.
**Details of the Accused**
According to the statement released by the CBI, Nijil Jobi Bensam was working in Russia as a translator on a contract basis and played a key role in facilitating the recruitment of Indian nationals into the Russian army. On the other hand, Anthony Michael Elangovan assisted his co-accused Faisal Baba, who was situated in Dubai, and other associates in Russia in arranging visas in Chennai and booking flight tickets for the victims bound for Russia. Arun and Yesudas Junior were identified as the primary recruiters of Indian nationals from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
**Ongoing Investigation**
The CBI emphasized that efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining individuals involved in the case. A case of human trafficking has been registered against private visa consultancies and agents implicated in the trafficking of Indian nationals. The agency is committed to bringing all perpetrators to justice and ensuring that such heinous activities are curbed.
**Conclusion**
The arrests made in connection with the human trafficking ring linked to the conflict zone between Russia and Ukraine highlight the grave reality of exploitation and manipulation faced by vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities. The CBI’s swift action in dismantling this network sends a strong message against such criminal activities and underscores the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of all individuals. As the investigation progresses, it is imperative that justice is served, and stringent measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future..
CBI nabs two more accused from Kerala, total arrests rise to – Firstpost.