The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested four individuals on Monday in connection with a human trafficking case involving the recruitment of Indian citizens for combat roles in the Russian-Ukraine war. The arrested individuals have been identified as Arun and Yesudas Junior from Thiruvananthapuram. Previously, the CBI had arrested Nijil Jobi Bensam from Kanyakumari and Antony Michael Elangovan from Mumbai, both of whom have been sent to judicial custody.
This case surfaced after reports indicated that Indian citizens were being recruited by agents based in Dubai, who promised high-paying jobs in Russia as helpers and security personnel but instead forcibly sent them to the war front. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), over 20 Indian citizens fell victim to this scam, with two losing their lives on the Ukrainian front lines.
Following these revelations, the CBI launched a thorough investigation, conducting raids across the country and busting a human trafficking gang. Raids were conducted in Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram, Ambala, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Chennai, and Madurai. A human trafficking case was also registered against a private visa consultation firm and the agents involved.
The CBI’s statement revealed that the traffickers operated as an organized network, luring young Indians with promises of lucrative, high-paying jobs. These recruits were then trained in combat roles and sent to Russian military bases, where some sustained serious injuries.
Nijil Jobi Bensam, identified as the prime suspect, worked as a translator in Russia and was responsible for recruiting Indian nationals into the Russian army. Michael Antony allegedly assisted co-accused Faisal Baba, based in Dubai, with visa processing and ticket bookings. Arun and Yesudas Junior were tasked with recruiting youth from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The CBI stated that the investigation is ongoing, aiming to uncover the full extent of the trafficking network and bring all perpetrators to justice.