In recent developments, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) of India has made four arrests in connection with a network involved in human trafficking. These arrests follow a series of raids conducted across 13 locations in India, which resulted in the detention of several individuals for interrogation.
The CBI asserts that the apprehended individuals are linked to a scheme that enticed young men with promises of lucrative employment opportunities or university admissions in Russia, only to coerce them into participating in the conflict in Ukraine.
The four Indian nationals arrested include a translator, an individual facilitating visa processing and airline ticket bookings, and two identified as the “main recruiters” for the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. According to the CBI, approximately 35 Indian men fell victim to this deceitful operation, as revealed during the agency’s investigation in March. The CBI states that their inquiry is ongoing, targeting other individuals involved in this international human trafficking network.
Indian men say they were fooled into fighting in Ukraine.
Relatives of two Indian men who lost their lives in the Ukrainian conflict claim that their loved ones had traveled to Russia with the expectation of serving as “helpers” in the army. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India confirms that each case has been vigorously pursued by Russian authorities, with efforts made to secure the release of approximately 20 Indian nationals serving in the Russian army.
Allegations from several Indian recruits suggest they were enticed by promises of substantial salaries and Russian citizenship, only to find themselves deployed to the front lines in Ukraine, contrary to initial assurances of non-combatant roles.
Despite India’s stance of not condemning Russia over the conflict, advocating instead for dialogue and diplomacy, reports indicate a growing involvement of Indian nationals in the conflict. Unemployment persists as a significant issue in India, prompting many to seek opportunities abroad.
The situation echoes previous instances where Indian workers were drawn into conflict zones, such as the surge in labor migration to Israel during its conflict with Gaza. Meanwhile, India’s continued reliance on Russian oil imports underscores the complexity of its relationship with Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
