Did Gujarat ATS and Crime Branch Just Uncover a Major Child Trafficking Network?
Synopsis
A shocking operation by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch and ATS led to the rescue of a 15-day-old newborn from a vehicle, unraveling a major inter-state child trafficking network. Discover how authorities are tackling this heinous crime and the implications for society.
Key Takeaways
15-day-old newborn rescued from a trafficking network.
Operation led by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch and ATS .
Four suspects apprehended, with ongoing investigations.
Trafficker Munna and agent Nagaraj remain at large.
Child trafficking remains a critical societal issue.
Ahmedabad, Jan 29 (NationPress) The Ahmedabad Crime Branch along with the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) successfully rescued a 15-day-old newborn from a vehicle in transit near Kotarpur, adjacent to Ahmedabad airport, and dismantled an inter-state child trafficking operation, according to officials on Thursday.
The operation was initiated following a crucial tip-off. Officials managed to intercept a car that had come from Himmatnagar and found the newborn inside it.
During the raid, four suspects were detained, including Roshan Agarwal from Hyderabad, Sumit Yadav from Uttar Pradesh, Vandana Panchal from Ahmedabad, and the driver, Maulik Dave. The infant was promptly transferred to the Child Health Officer for necessary medical attention and protection.
Police investigations indicated that the child was bought for Rs 3.60 lakh from a trafficker known as Munna, also referred to as Yunus, in Himmatnagar. The accused were allegedly on their way to Hyderabad to sell the infant to an agent named Nagaraj.
Both Munna and Nagaraj are currently on the run, with multiple police teams engaged in efforts to apprehend them.
“This child is only 15 days old. We are probing into the identity of the biological mother and the middlemen involved. Vandana and Roshan have a history of involvement in child trafficking cases in Hyderabad. After being released on bail, they resumed similar criminal activities,” stated ACP Bharat Patel.
According to police records, the trafficking network primarily sources newborns from the Sabarkantha and Banaskantha areas. “Munna had reportedly acquired the baby for Rs 60,000, cared for the child briefly, and was preparing to transfer him in Hyderabad,” ACP Patel added.
In previous operations, Hyderabad police had rescued three children connected to Vandana and Roshan, one of whom was traced back to Ahmedabad, underscoring the extensive inter-state nature of the racket. Officials are currently investigating the intended fate of the rescued infant, as such children are often sold to childless couples or trafficked under the pretense of illegal adoption.
ACP Patel remarked, “Infants are frequently trafficked due to societal pressures faced by mothers, which may include pregnancies outside of marriage or other sensitive issues. It is vital to apprehend Munna to trace the biological parents of the child.”
This incident follows a similar crackdown six months prior, when Ahmedabad Rural Police uncovered a trafficking gang involved in abducting children from Dholka and selling them in Maharashtra, resulting in the arrest of four individuals, including a nurse at an IVF center.
Police confirmed that inquiries are still active, with ongoing efforts to dismantle the entire trafficking network.
Point of View
I firmly assert that the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat child trafficking are not only commendable but essential. This incident highlights the persistent societal issues surrounding child trafficking and the urgent need for enhanced protective measures for vulnerable populations. Our commitment to reporting on these matters aims to foster awareness and promote action.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the circumstances surrounding the rescue?
The Ahmedabad Crime Branch and ATS acted on a tip-off and intercepted a vehicle near Kotarpur, leading to the rescue of a 15-day-old newborn.
Who were the individuals apprehended?
Four individuals were arrested during the operation, including Roshan Agarwal, Sumit Yadav, Vandana Panchal, and driver Maulik Dave.
What was the purpose of the trafficking operation?
The newborn was allegedly purchased for Rs 3.60 lakh to be sold to an agent in Hyderabad.
What is being done to locate the traffickers?
Police are actively searching for Munna and Nagaraj, who are currently absconding, with multiple teams involved in the investigation.
What are the implications of this case?
This case highlights the ongoing issues of child trafficking and the need for greater protective measures for vulnerable populations.
