Noida Man's Rescue from Myanmar Leads to Major Cyber Slavery Bust
A young man from Noida, recently rescued from captivity in Myanmar, has played a crucial role in helping police dismantle an international cyber slavery network. His cooperation led directly to the arrest of a key agent involved in trafficking Indian youths to Southeast Asian cybercrime cartels.
Recruiter Arrested in Shamli for Luring Victims
On Wednesday, the cybercrime unit apprehended Shubham Pundir from Jalalpur in Shamli district. Police allege he operated as a local recruiter for foreign-based criminal groups, specifically targeting young Indians with deceptive overseas job offers. These offers ultimately delivered victims into the hands of exploitative syndicates.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cybercrime) Shavya Goyal detailed the scheme. Pundir allegedly used Instagram to advertise attractive data-entry positions in Thailand. He promised monthly salaries exceeding Rs 1.5 lakh, along with free accommodation and meals. Interested candidates were called for interviews and charged hefty fees ranging from Rs 80,000 to Rs 1 lakh for supposed travel arrangements.
Victim's Harrowing Ordeal in Myanmar
The case emerged after a resident of Sector 73 in Noida filed a formal complaint on January 12. He stated that he contacted Pundir through Instagram, believing him to be a legitimate overseas placement consultant. After paying Rs 80,000, he traveled to Thailand in July 2025.
His situation turned dire immediately upon arrival. Unidentified men detained him and forcibly transported him to Myanmar. There, he was coerced into working for a cyber fraud syndicate. The victim reported enduring physical torture and severe psychological pressure. His captors forced him to execute online scams targeting foreign nationals.
His daily tasks involved managing fake social media accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Tinder. He had to befriend targets and emotionally manipulate them into fraudulent investment schemes or deceptive online relationships. Refusal to comply resulted in beatings and threats from the syndicate operators.
Rescue and Investigation Unfold
The man was finally rescued in November last year. His freedom came through a coordinated operation between the Indian and Myanmar governments, which liberated 360 Indians trapped in similar cybercrime networks. After returning to India, he approached the Noida cybercrime cell and registered a formal case. This complaint provided the evidence needed for Pundir's arrest.
Investigators revealed that Pundir had sent at least six youths abroad under similar pretenses. All were subsequently handed over to cybercrime groups. Police have seized his mobile phone for forensic analysis and are scrutinizing his bank accounts to trace payments from foreign operators.
Accused's Criminal History and Network
Police records show Pundir is not a first-time offender. He faces wanted status in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra for charges including fraud, cheating, and criminal conspiracy. Authorities have identified three existing criminal cases against him in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Despite having an education only up to Class 12, investigators believe he is deeply embedded within organized cybercrime networks. His arrest was made under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the IT Act, including charges for cheating, trafficking, criminal conspiracy, and destroying evidence.
Police Emphasize Human Trafficking Angle
Officials stress this case extends beyond simple financial fraud. A senior police officer described it as a serious matter involving human trafficking, cyber slavery, and transnational organized crime. Authorities are now coordinating with other state police units and central agencies to identify additional victims.
The Additional DCP informed that Pundir has named several other agents involved in similar operations during interrogation. Special police teams have been formed to track and arrest these individuals. Raids are currently ongoing at suspected locations across the region.
This breakthrough highlights the dangerous intersection of online recruitment fraud and international human trafficking, putting a spotlight on the vulnerabilities exploited by criminal networks.
