‘Cyber slavery’ adds dangerous dimension to human trafficking: DIG Crime

Srinagar, Oct 19: Fraudulent overseas job offers are increasingly being used to lure vulnerable people into human trafficking networks, with victims allegedly routed through multiple countries, stripped of legal protections and forced into exploitative situations, DIG Crime Branch Abdul Qayoom said on Monday.
Expressing deep concern over the growing menace, Qayoom, speaking to reporters here on the sidelines of a function, said human trafficking is taking dangerous new dimensions, including “cyber slavery”, as fraudulent placement agencies and criminal syndicates exploit job seekers under the guise of lucrative employment opportunities abroad.
The DIG said that bogus recruitment firms and consultancies attract people with promises of high-paying overseas jobs but may subsequently confiscate their passports, force them into illegal activities or leave them stranded in foreign countries under distressing conditions.
“In some cases, victims promised jobs in Dubai are allegedly diverted through multiple transit countries, including Thailand, to restrict their movement and deprive them of legal protection,” he said.
Qayoom further said several victims had been rescued and repatriated from countries, including Thailand and Myanmar. “Tackling such cases remains complex, as some victims hesitate to come forward or cooperate with investigations, making prosecution difficult,” he said.
The DIG said investigations have revealed that trafficking networks also source victims from different states outside the region. “Local police networks, investigative units and district-level anti-human trafficking cells are coordinating efforts to address complaints, track down suspects and dismantle the criminal syndicates,” he said.
Stressing the importance of public awareness, he urged people to thoroughly verify overseas employment offers and recruitment agencies before making payments or travelling abroad. (KNO)