Home / Crime and Justice / Kochi Police Uncover International Sex Trafficking Network
Kochi Police Uncover International Sex Trafficking Network
22 May
Summary
- Key accused Bilal identified and transported victims abroad for profit.
- Victims were offered jobs, charged lakhs for visas, then exploited.
- Police are investigating international events used for victim recruitment.
Kochi police have apprehended Bilal alias Sreekumar, a central figure in an international sex trafficking operation. Authorities revealed on Friday that Bilal was instrumental in identifying, recruiting, and transporting victims abroad, reportedly earning commissions of Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh per individual.
The network allegedly operated by offering victims employment opportunities, such as a make-up artist role in Dubai. One woman reported paying Rs 5 lakh for a visa and job, only to be drugged and gang-raped upon arrival. The perpetrators then shared assault visuals with her family.
Investigators are examining the possibility that international events were organized by the racket specifically to recruit victims. The prime accused, Stoicy alias Sindhu, 56, was previously remanded in custody. Police have identified two additional accused, Shamla and Rehmath, and are pursuing legal measures to bring two other individuals currently abroad back to the country.
