Joint Police-SSB Operation Rescues Four Nepalese from Human Traffickers Near Indo-Nepal Border
In a significant late-night operation on Sunday, authorities in Lucknow successfully rescued three Nepalese women and a minor girl from the clutches of human traffickers operating near the sensitive Indo-Nepal border. The coordinated effort involved local police and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), culminating in the arrest of two alleged traffickers and the safe recovery of the victims, who have since been entrusted to a non-governmental organization for care and rehabilitation.
Tip-Off Leads to Swift Action
According to Sirsiya station house officer Shailkant Upadhyay, the operation was initiated based on a crucial tip-off received during routine night patrolling. Sub-inspector Deepak Giri, along with a team of police and SSB personnel, was conducting patrols when they received intelligence about the trafficking of Nepali girls into Indian territory. Acting promptly on this information, a joint task force was assembled to address the imminent threat.
Coordinated Raid in Border Village
The joint team, comprising key officials such as AHTU (Anti-Human Trafficking Unit) in-charge Santosh Gautam, SOG in-charge Mohammad Yusuf, and SSB assistant commandant Amit Sharma, conducted a targeted raid in the border village of Bhachkahi. After conducting brief surveillance to confirm the details, the team observed two men arriving via a forest route on a motorcycle, accompanied by three women and a minor girl. The suspects were swiftly apprehended at the scene.
Identification and Interrogation
The arrested individuals were identified as Hariram and Ramroop, residents of Babhni Kukurbhukva village. During subsequent questioning, the rescued victims disclosed that they had been brought to the area under the false pretext of participating in dance performances. Further local enquiries revealed disturbing allegations that the women had been sexually exploited after being lured with deceptive promises of employment and better opportunities.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
In response to these findings, the police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the two accused under relevant sections of the law pertaining to human trafficking and sexual exploitation. This legal action underscores the seriousness with which authorities are addressing such crimes, particularly in border regions where vulnerable populations are at heightened risk.
Rehabilitation Efforts
The rescued victims, having endured traumatic experiences, were promptly handed over to a dedicated NGO for comprehensive care and rehabilitation. This step highlights the ongoing efforts to support survivors of trafficking, ensuring they receive the necessary psychological, medical, and social assistance to rebuild their lives.
This operation not only demonstrates the effectiveness of joint law enforcement initiatives but also serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by human trafficking in border areas. Authorities continue to urge vigilance and cooperation from the public to combat such illicit activities and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
