Home / Crime and Justice / Kochi Police Probe Cambodia Job Fraud Case
Kochi Police Probe Cambodia Job Fraud Case
20 Jun
Summary
- Over 100 individuals, including Keralites, were recruited for fake jobs.
- A kingpin was arrested for cybercrime, leading to trafficking racket discovery.
- Racket allegedly operated by Chinese nationals used social media for recruitment.
Kochi city police are preparing to submit a comprehensive investigation report to the state DGP concerning a human trafficking case linked to Cambodia. A dedicated seven-member team has been diligently recording statements from around 12 victims who were allegedly recruited for non-existent overseas jobs.
The fraud came to light following the recent arrest of Abdul Rahman, a kingpin from Palakkad, by Kochi city police for a cybercrime. Rahman was apprehended for defrauding a doctor of Rs 37 lakh by creating a fake profile and luring him into online trading investments.
During interrogation, Rahman confessed to his role in a human trafficking racket, admitting to recruiting over 100 people to Cambodia. He reportedly charged Rs 3 lakh per person, retaining about Rs 2 lakh after paying other syndicate members.
Investigators suspect Chinese nationals were behind the operation, which utilized social media platforms for recruitment through advertisements for trading and loan apps, as well as fake matrimonial profiles. The case gained further traction when Cambodian authorities deported 12 Keralites found without proper documentation.
The police have initiated 'Operation Cambodia' and are examining Rahman's financial records. Authorities are also expected to request involvement from central investigation agencies to further scrutinize the international syndicate.
