Chandigarh, February 10, 2025: Punjab Police have intensified their efforts to dismantle an expansive human trafficking network after multiple deported migrants from the United States came forward with complaints against unscrupulous immigration consultants. In a decisive move, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has registered eight First Information Reports (FIRs) against these fraudulent agents, exposing the extent of the illicit operations that preyed upon desperate individuals seeking illegal passage to the US.
A Web of Deceit
The investigation has unearthed a well-coordinated racket operating across multiple regions, luring aspiring migrants with false promises of guaranteed entry into the US through illegal channels. Victims, many of whom risked their savings and safety, have now become crucial witnesses in the crackdown against these consultants. The SIT, led by Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) NRI Affairs Praveen Sinha, has been meticulously gathering testimonies and verifying transactions that facilitated these deceptive schemes.
Top Cops Take Charge
Senior officials, including ADGP Internal Security Shive Kumar Verma, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Provisioning Dr. S Boopathi, and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Border Range Satinder Singh, are closely monitoring the developments to ensure swift action. Police Commissionerates (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) from various districts have joined forces with the SIT, employing coordinated efforts to track and apprehend those responsible.
Victims Speak Out
The deported migrants have detailed harrowing experiences, from treacherous journeys through multiple countries to exploitative conditions in transit. Many fell victim to deceitful agents who charged exorbitant fees, promising safe entry into the US through illegal means, only for their journeys to end in detainment and deportation. Their testimonies have become instrumental in exposing the modus operandi of these traffickers.
Crackdown Gains Momentum
DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav has reaffirmed the state’s zero-tolerance policy against immigration fraud, stating, “We are committed to dismantling these illegal networks that exploit innocent individuals and tarnish Punjab’s global reputation. Strict legal action will be taken against those involved in human smuggling.”
The police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious immigration consultancies operating under dubious pretenses. Helpline numbers have been activated to assist potential victims and their families in identifying fraudulent schemes before they fall prey to them.
International Implications
Authorities believe the crackdown will have international repercussions, as human trafficking networks often extend beyond national borders. Intelligence sharing with US immigration agencies and global law enforcement bodies is underway to track down key operatives abroad.
As the investigation progresses, Punjab Police are expected to expand their probe, identifying and bringing to justice those responsible for exploiting the aspirations of migrants. With strict legal action and public awareness campaigns, authorities aim to dismantle the cycle of deception and ensure that no individual is misled into risking their life for an illegal dream.
