Srinagar, Oct 1 (GNS): The State Investigation Agency, Kashmir on Thursday conducted searches at two locations in south Kashmir as part of its probe into a transnational human trafficking and cyber fraud network.
In a hand out to GNS, SIA said searches were carried out at the residential premises of Gulam Nabi Khanday alias Charlie alias Mohsin alias Jerry Khan of Bungam Chewgam, Kulgam and Ashiq Hussain Sheikh of Baghpora Yar Khushipora, Qazigund.
The searches were conducted in early hours today pursuant to search warrants issued by competent court in connection with FIR No. 01/2026 of Police Station SIA Kashmir. During searches, SIA seized incriminating material including mobile phones, identity-related documents, PAN cards, a passport and job agreements, which are being examined.
According to SIA, preliminary investigation has revealed that local facilitators in coordination with foreign-based handlers lured vulnerable and unemployed youth from Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of country with offers of employment abroad. The victims were allegedly moved through Thailand to Myawaddy region of Myanmar, where they were subjected to exploitation and allegedly compelled to participate in cyber scam operations.
The emerging dimensions indicate involvement of a transnational chain extending across jurisdictions, involving recruitment, movement, facilitation and exploitation of victims. The investigation is being pursued to identify complete network, its local and overseas linkages, and financial and logistical channels supporting its operations. Cooperation from national agencies and international partners has also been solicited, SIA said.
SIA said the searches constitute an important step in its ongoing efforts to identify, trace and dismantle entire network, establish role of each person involved and uncover mechanisms through which victims were recruited, transported and exploited.
The digital and documentary material seized will be subjected to detailed examination to establish further linkages, communication channels, financial transactions, recruitment mechanisms and other evidence relevant to investigation.
SIA reiterated its commitment to pursuing organized and transnational criminal networks with comprehensive, evidence-based and coordinated investigation, while taking all necessary legal measures to identify perpetrators and safeguard interests of victims. Further investigation is in progress.(GNS)
