CBI conducts multi-city raids to tackle trafficking of Indians to fight in Russia-Ukraine war

The Central Bureau of Investigation is leading raids across seven cities to counter a human trafficking network. A case has been registered against various visa consultancy firms and agents for hiring people for lucrative jobs and then sending them to the Russia-Ukraine war zone. The development comes less than a day after Indian authorities confirmed the death of a Hyderabad resident while fighting for Moscow. 

Officials have so far identified 35 instances in which youngsters were taken to Russia on the pretext of high-paying jobs. They were lured via social media channels and local contacts and agents and eventually deployed against their wishes. According to a statement, the trafficked Indian nationals were trained in combat roles and deployed across front bases in the Russia-Ukraine war zone. Efforts are underway to identify the victims.

Earlier this week Indian authorities confirmed the death of a Hyderabad national forced to work as a "helper" for the Russian Army. A PTI report quoting his brother indicates that the agents had taken massive sums of money from Mohammed Asfan and other victims. They were were made to sign a document in Russian upon reaching the other country and later realised they had been recruited. The youth had also contacted the agents and informed them that they were being trained to use weapons, but the agents again lied to them saying it was a part of the job. 

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“The human trafficking network of these agents is spread over several states across the country and they are operating in an organised manner. It has been ascertained that some of the victims also suffered grievous injuries in the war zone,” a CBI official said.

"So far, cash worth over ₹50 lakh, incriminating documents and electronic records like laptops, mobiles, desktops and CCTV footage have been seized. Searches are going on. Certain suspects have also been detained for questioning at various locations," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)