Karnal police crack down on human traffickers, register two more FIRs

The Karnal police have registered two more FIRs against five individuals accused of duping youth with false promises of safe travel and job opportunities in the US. Three victims, including a couple, alleged they were misled into taking the perilous ‘donkey’ route, only to face immense hardship and eventual deportation. The cases have been registered at the Assandh police station.

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Authorities suspect a larger human trafficking network may be exploiting innocent people. The police have urged more victims to come forward with complaints.

Police investigation underway

“We have registered two FIRs based on the victims' complaints. Investigations are ongoing, and so far, we have registered six such cases. Any victim can approach the police, and we will ensure strict action as per the law,” SP Ganga Ram Punia said.

One of the victims, a farmer from Assandh, detailed his ordeal in his complaint. He revealed that he was introduced to an agent from his village last year, who promised him and his wife a secure job in the US for Rs 70 lakh.

“I was engaged in farming and supporting my family when I met the agent. He showed me big dreams of a prosperous life in America. When I discussed it with my wife, we agreed to pursue this opportunity. The agent assured us that we would be sent to the US on valid documents,” the victim stated.

The couple left home on October 3, 2024, carrying $4,40,000 and were first taken to Mumbai, where they were kept for 18 days. On October 21, 2024, they were flown to Pune, then onward to the Netherlands.

However, their journey soon turned into a nightmare. Stranded at the Netherlands airport for two days, they were then transported through Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, and other countries. They endured hunger, extreme weather, and dangerous jungle crossings. Along the way, they were constantly threatened and forced to pay additional money.

Upon reaching Mexico, they were packed into a container truck with 47 others and forced to cross into the US on February 4, 2025. However, they were caught by US authorities and taken into custody. On February 16, 2025, they were deported back to India.

The police have registered a case under Section 24 of the Immigration Act and Sections 316 (2) and 318 (4) of the BNS.

In a separate case, another victim from Assandh claimed he was cheated out of Rs 43.50 lakh. He was promised legal travel to the US but was instead trafficked through multiple countries under dire conditions before being detained and deported.

“In April-May 2024, I came into contact with agents who assured me of a legal route to the US. After several discussions over phone calls, an agreement was made to send me there for Rs 43.50 lakh,” he said.

Instead of air travel, he was smuggled through various countries, ultimately reaching the US border. Upon entry, he was detained by US authorities, handcuffed, and later deported on February 17, 2025, for illegal entry.

Throughout his journey, he faced inhumane treatment. The police have registered an FIR against four named agents and others under Sections 406 and 420 of the IPC, along with Section 24 of the Immigration Act.