Did NIA Arrest 2 Human Traffickers in Delhi and Himachal Pradesh for Sending Over 100 Youths to the US via the ‘Donkey Route’?
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Synopsis
The recent arrests by the NIA shed light on a disturbing human trafficking network involving over 100 youths being sent to the US through dangerous routes. This case highlights the ongoing battle against such crimes in India.
Key Takeaways
- NIA's proactive measures against human trafficking.
- Significant arrests that may lead to further investigations.
- Victims subjected to severe hardships.
- Importance of international cooperation to combat trafficking.
- Awareness of the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals.
New Delhi, July 5 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended two human traffickers from distinct locations in Himachal Pradesh and Delhi on Friday. The individuals, who are accused of illegally transporting over 100 youths to the United States through the infamous ‘donkey route’, were captured following extensive investigations.
The suspects have been named as Sunny Donker, hailing from Kangra in Himachal Pradesh, and Shubham Sandhal, a Punjab native currently living in the national capital.
Both are reportedly linked to Gagandeep Singh alias Goldy, who was taken into custody earlier in March.
Gagandeep's arrest followed a complaint from a victim who had been unlawfully trafficked to the US via the notorious ‘donkey route’ and was deported back to India in February this year.
Goldy, residing in Tilak Nagar, Delhi, was subsequently charged by the NIA.
According to the law enforcement agency's findings, Gagandeep Singh would charge approximately Rs 45 lakh from each victim under the guise of providing a valid visa to the US.
He would then send them on a perilous journey through multiple countries, including Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Before his arrest, he had facilitated the illegal transport of over 100 victims to the US.
Sunny acted as Gagandeep's primary associate, significantly aiding the victims' journeys along the 'donkey route'.
Moreover, victims faced physical and mental harassment from agents during the journey to extort additional funds.
Shubham Sandhal functioned as a key hawala operator, transferring money to agents in Latin America. Gagandeep relied on him to send part of the funds acquired from victims to these agents.
In March of this year, the NIA took over the investigation from the Punjab Police. As the inquiry unfolds, more dark aspects of the human trafficking network are being uncovered.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the importance of the NIA's actions against human trafficking. This case serves as a reminder of the persistent issue of illegal migration and the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'donkey route'?
The 'donkey route' refers to a perilous pathway used by traffickers to smuggle individuals into the US, often involving multiple countries.
How many youths were trafficked?
Over 100 youths were reportedly trafficked to the US via this route.
Who are the arrested individuals?
The arrested individuals are Sunny Donker and Shubham Sandhal, both linked to a larger trafficking network.
What role did Gagandeep Singh play?
Gagandeep Singh, alias Goldy, was the primary organizer of the trafficking operations and was previously arrested in March.
What measures is the NIA taking against human trafficking?
The NIA is actively investigating and taking legal action against individuals involved in human trafficking networks across India.
