NIA Uncovers Organ Donor Ring Linked to Iran

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is investigating a significant organ trafficking racket that has expanded its operations beyond Iran to include Tajikistan. Fresh details revealed that two individuals from Odisha were sent to Tajikistan earlier this year for illegal organ donation. This revelation comes as part of an ongoing case registered in Kerala, focusing on a network that facilitated illicit organ transplantation in Iran.

Madhu Jayakumar, a key accused who had been absconding for over a year, was apprehended recently. During interrogation, Jayakumar disclosed facilitating 27 kidney transplants in Iran and identified 11 donors. The NIA's investigation also shows that earnings from this illegal trade were converted into Bitcoin and USDT, with efforts underway to trace these transactions and uncover connections to other racketeers.

The NIA sought further custody of Jayakumar to delve deeper into the financial aspects of the operation and confront him with digital evidence. The court, acknowledging the gravity of the crime, granted the NIA a three-day custody extension. Efforts are ongoing to locate the two donors from Odisha sent to Tajikistan, highlighting the far-reaching nature of this organ trafficking network.