As reported by Visakhapatnam Joint Commissioner of Police Fakkeerappa Kaginelli, a significant development has unfolded in the recent human trafficking case involving Visakhapatnam and its surrounding areas. A total of 27 young individuals who were trafficked to Cambodia have successfully returned to the city.
Kaginelli provided details of the repatriation, indicating that a group of 10 returnees arrived at the city's airport at 5:30 pm, with another batch of 15 expected to arrive later in the day. Additionally, two more individuals made independent arrangements to return via Singapore. Notably, out of the 58 individuals rescued, 27 hailed from the southern state.
The positive momentum in this case commenced following the revelation of the human trafficking incident by city police on May 18. Subsequently, three individuals were arrested on charges of human trafficking for enticing over 150 youths from Visakhapatnam and its vicinity with promises of employment in Southeast Asia. However, these individuals were instead trafficked to Cambodia, where they were reportedly subjected to exploitation, including cybercrime and Ponzi schemes orchestrated by Chinese operators.
Kaginelli highlighted the courageous act of the trafficked youth, who "revolted" against their handlers in Cambodia, leading to the apprehension of over 300 Indians by local authorities. This pivotal action prompted various Indian government departments, including the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), to initiate diplomatic efforts for their release.
In response, the MEA established a control room, and helplines, and appointed special officers to facilitate the repatriation process. Furthermore, nine additional families have approached city police seeking assistance in repatriating their children, while approximately 100 more individuals remain to be contacted, identified, and repatriated to Visakhapatnam.
This significant development underscores the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and government bodies in combating human trafficking and ensuring the safe return of affected individuals to their families and communities.
