NIA Arrests Key Suspect in Human Trafficking Case Involving ‘Dunki’ Route

The NIA has arrested Gagandeep Singh, a key figure in human trafficking, for illegally sending immigrants to the US via the ‘dunki’ route. The victim paid Rs 45 lakh for this illegal service, leading to his eventual deportation from the US. The case, initiated by Punjab Police and later taken over by the NIA, reveals exploitation and violence faced by victims during their journey.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a significant suspect linked to human trafficking operations that illegally transport individuals to the United States via a clandestine route known as ‘dunki.’ This route, derived from the term “donkey,” signifies an unlawful path used by migrants to enter the United States without valid documentation, often facilitated by traffickers.

The accused, identified as Gagandeep Singh, also known as Goldie, hails from Tilak Nagar in West Delhi. According to an official statement from the NIA, Goldie was allegedly compensated approximately Rs 45 lakh by a victim from the Tarn Taran district in Punjab for his services in facilitating illegal immigration. The victim managed to reach the United States through the ‘dunki’ route in December 2024 but was later deported back to India by U.S. authorities on February 15, prompting him to file a complaint against Goldie.

Initially, the case was filed by the Punjab Police but was subsequently transferred to the NIA on March 13. Investigations revealed that Goldie operated without any legal permits or licenses and used the ‘dunki’ route, which involved sending the victim through a series of countries, including Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico. Furthermore, the NIA uncovered that Goldie’s associates had physically assaulted and exploited the victim during the perilous journey, even stealing the currency he had in his possession.

Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, stated in the Lok Sabha on March 28 that a total of 636 Indian nationals have been deported from the United States to India between January 2025 and the present.

The NIA’s arrest of Gagandeep Singh highlights ongoing human trafficking issues, particularly related to the dangerous ‘dunki’ route used for illegal immigration to the United States. This case underscores the challenges faced by victims who endure exploitation during their treacherous journey. The developments of this investigation reaffirm the necessity for strict enforcement against traffickers and the importance of legal immigration pathways.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com