NIA Arrests Key Accused in Human Trafficking to the US via Dunki Route
The NIA arrested Gagandeep Singh for allegedly trafficking individuals to the US via the ‘dunki’ route, a dangerous illegal pathway. The victim had paid Rs 45 lakh for the service and faced exploitation during the journey. This case was originally registered by the Punjab Police before being taken over by the NIA for ongoing investigations.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended Gagandeep Singh, also known as Goldie, who is allegedly pivotal in the illegal trafficking of individuals to the United States via the notorious ‘dunki’ route. This route, derived from the term ‘donkey’, symbolizes perilous pathways utilized by immigrants to surreptitiously enter nations like the United States without adequate documentation, often facilitated by human trafficking networks.
According to official reports, Goldie, a resident of Tilak Nagar in West Delhi, allegedly received approximately Rs 45 lakh from a victim residing in Tarn Taran district, Punjab, for facilitating illegal immigration. The victim traveled through the ‘dunki’ route to the US in December 2024 but was deported back to India by US authorities on February 15, after which he lodged a complaint against Goldie, labeled as the “agent” responsible for his perilous journey.
This case, initially investigated by the Punjab Police, was subsequently transferred to the NIA on March 13. Investigations have unveiled that Goldie lacked the necessary licenses, permits, or registrations for facilitating overseas travel. He reportedly used the ‘dunki’ route, taking the victim through Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Furthermore, NIA findings indicate that associates of Goldie subjected the victim to physical abuse and exploitation during the difficult journey, including the theft of money he was carrying, illustrating the brutal conditions faced by those seeking illegal passage.
In response to a query in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, noted that between January 2025 and the present, a total of 636 Indian nationals have been repatriated from the United States.
The arrest of Gagandeep Singh highlights the ongoing struggle against human trafficking and illegal immigration through dangerous routes. The NIA’s diligent investigation reveals both the financial and physical toll inflicted on victims of such syndicates. The government’s measures, including scrutiny of deported individuals, reflect efforts to combat this growing issue.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
