Srinagar, Oct 1, KDC: The State Investigation Agency (SIA), Kashmir, on Thursday conducted searches at two residential premises in Kulgam and Qazigund as part of an investigation into an alleged transnational human trafficking and cyber fraud network operating under the guise of overseas employment.
The searches were carried out at the residential premises of Gulam Nabi Khanday alias Charlie, Mohsin and Jerry Khan, a resident of Bungam Chewgam, Kulgam, and Ashiq Hussain Sheikh, a resident of Baghpora Yar Khushipora, Qazigund, the agency said in a press release to Kashmir Dot Com.
According to the SIA, the operation was conducted in the early hours pursuant to search warrants issued by the competent court in connection with FIR No. 01/2026 of Police Station SIA Kashmir.
During the searches, investigators seized several items, including mobile phones, identity-related documents, PAN cards, a passport and job agreements, which are now being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
The SIA said the preliminary investigation has brought to light an alleged modus operandi in which local facilitators, allegedly working in coordination with handlers based abroad, lured unemployed and vulnerable youth with promises of overseas employment.
The victims were allegedly transported through Thailand to the Myawaddy region of Myanmar, where they were subsequently exploited and allegedly forced to participate in cyber scam operations, the agency said.
“The emerging dimensions of the case indicate the involvement of a transnational chain extending across jurisdictions, involving recruitment, movement, facilitation and exploitation of victims,” the SIA said.
The agency said the investigation is focused on establishing the complete network, including its alleged local and overseas linkages as well as financial and logistical channels supporting the operation.
The SIA has also sought cooperation from national agencies and international partners as investigators work to establish the wider network and identify the individuals allegedly involved.
Describing the searches as part of its broader effort to dismantle the network, the agency said the seized digital and documentary material would undergo detailed examination to establish communication channels, financial transactions, recruitment mechanisms and other relevant evidence.
The SIA said its investigation would also seek to determine the specific role of each person allegedly involved and trace the mechanisms through which victims were recruited, transported and exploited.
“The SIA Kashmir reiterates its commitment to pursuing organized and transnational criminal networks with a comprehensive, evidence-based and coordinated investigation,” the agency said, adding that necessary legal measures would be taken to identify the perpetrators and safeguard the interests of trafficking victims.
Further investigation in the case is underway. (KDC)
