NIA Arrests Key Accused in Human Trafficking Case via Dunki Route

The NIA arrested Gagandeep Singh, known as Goldie, for his role in human trafficking via the ‘dunki’ route to the U.S. Goldie allegedly charged Rs 45 lakh from a victim who was deported back to India. Investigations revealed Goldie’s lack of legal permits and exposure of victims to violence during the journey.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended Gagandeep Singh, also known as Goldie, in connection with human trafficking activities involving illegal immigration to the United States via the notorious ‘dunki’ route. This route, originating from the term “donkey,” signifies the perilous path taken by undocumented immigrants facilitated by human-trafficking networks. Goldie, a resident of Tilak Nagar in West Delhi, reportedly received approximately Rs 45 lakh from a victim from Tarn Taran, Punjab, for facilitating his illegal immigration to the U.S. in December 2024.

Upon arriving in the United States, the victim faced deportation back to India on February 15 and subsequently lodged a complaint against Goldie, the alleged agent behind this operation. Initial investigations were conducted by Punjab Police before the case was taken over by the NIA on March 13. The NIA’s probe uncovered that Goldie operated without any legal permits or licenses for immigration and used the ‘dunki’ route, which included transit through Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico.

Furthermore, the investigations disclosed that associates of Goldie, referred to as “donkers,” had subjected the victim to severe treatment, including physical assault and theft of his cash during the journey. The growing issue of illegal immigration has been underscored by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, who noted that a total of 636 Indian nationals have been deported from the U.S. between January 2025 and the present.

The apprehension of Gagandeep Singh highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking and illegal immigration through the ‘dunki’ route. The NIA’s investigations emphasize the dangers faced by victims, who not only risk their lives but also endure exploitation at the hands of human traffickers. The incident has drawn attention to the need for stringent measures to combat such syndicates, as well as for the protection of vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities abroad.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com