The NIA has arrested Gagandeep Singh, a key figure allegedly involved in human trafficking to the U.S. via the ‘dunki’ route, receiving around Rs 45 lakh from a victim. This individual has been deported from the U.S. after being exploited during his journey, underscoring the dangers associated with illegal immigration. The case, initially filed by Punjab Police, was taken over by the NIA.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a significant suspect linked to the illegal transport of individuals to the United States via the notorious ‘dunki’ route. The ‘dunki’ route, a term believed to derive from “donkey,” describes a perilous pathway used by immigrants for undocumented entry into countries like the U.S., typically orchestrated by human-trafficking organizations.
The arrested individual, Gagandeep Singh, also known as Goldie, hails from Tilak Nagar in West Delhi. According to an official statement by the NIA, Goldie allegedly received approximately Rs 45 lakh from a victim from Tarn Taran, Punjab, for facilitating his illegal immigration.
The victim, who was sent to the U.S. through the ‘dunki’ route in December 2024, was subsequently deported back to India on February 15. Following this, he lodged a complaint against Goldie, the so-called agent who facilitated his journey. The Punjab Police initially registered the case, which was later transferred to the NIA on March 13.
Investigations revealed that Goldie operated without any valid license, permit, or registration for international immigration. He reportedly utilized the ‘dunki’ route to send the victim through several countries, including Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Furthermore, the NIA uncovered that Goldie’s accomplices subjected the victim to physical abuse and exploitation, even seizing money he carried during the challenging travel period. In response to a Lok Sabha inquiry, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that since January 2025, a total of 636 Indian nationals have been deported back to India from the United States.
The recent arrest of Gagandeep Singh highlights the ongoing issue of human trafficking via illegal pathways like the ‘dunki’ route. This case underscores the dangers these victims face, including exploitation and violence. It also reflects the need for stringent action against those involved in such illicit activities and underscores the collaboration between agencies to combat human trafficking. The NIA’s role in this context demonstrates the seriousness of addressing such crimes against vulnerable individuals.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
