The Gujarat High Court has granted conditional bail to two individuals accused of being part of a disturbing cross-border human trafficking operation that lured youths with job promises in Thailand, only to force them into cyber slavery in Myanmar.
Court's Conditional Bail Order
Justice Nikhil Kariel granted regular bail to the accused, identified as Akib Saiyed and Danish Dnatreliya. The bail comes with strict conditions. They must surrender their passports to the authorities and are prohibited from leaving the state of Gujarat without obtaining prior permission from the court.
The court, while acknowledging the severity of the offence, observed that the evidence presented suggested the applicants were "only small-time players who attempted to get good employment for their friends." This assessment played a key role in the bail decision, despite the grave nature of the allegations.
Details of the Cyber Slavery Racket
The Ahmedabad Cybercrime Cell arrested the duo on charges of their involvement in a sophisticated trafficking network. The accused allegedly illegally sent around 40 Indian youths to Thailand under the guise of providing them with employment opportunities.
However, once in Thailand, these youths were forcibly transported to Myanmar. There, they were held at gunpoint and compelled to work in illegal call centres run by Chinese operators. These centres were involved in perpetrating large-scale online investment frauds.
In a cruel twist, families of the victims who sought repatriation for their loved ones were extorted, charged exorbitant amounts ranging between Rs 3.50 lakh and Rs 4 lakh for their safe return.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Probe
This case highlights the growing menace of international cyber slavery and job fraud rings targeting Indian youth. The bail grant, while conditional, brings the focus back on the intricate networks behind such operations and the challenges in prosecuting all involved players.
The investigation by the cybercrime cell is ongoing, aiming to uncover the larger syndicate responsible for the trafficking and exploitation. The court's conditions aim to ensure the accused remain available for further legal proceedings while the probe continues to identify the masterminds.
