Key Human Trafficking Suspect Arrested by NIA Team in Tamil Nadu
Chennai: The Absconded Tracking Team (ATT) of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Bengaluru, has made a significant arrest in a human trafficking case in Theni district, Tamil Nadu. The suspect, Mohamed Imran Khan alias Hama Najerbheeden, who had been on the run since June 2021, was taken into custody. Imran Khan, 39 years old and hailing from Ramanathapuram, was identified as a key figure in the case.
Imran Khan’s arrest was the result of months of monitoring and tracking by the ATT, NIA Bengaluru. The agency had been keeping an eye on his movements, eventually leading to his capture in Theni. Preliminary investigations have revealed that Imran Khan is not only involved in human trafficking but is also a notorious smuggler with a long history of illegal activities in the region. He was a fugitive wanted by multiple law enforcement agencies.
The Sri Lankan human trafficking case originated when the Mangalore South Police received credible intelligence about a group of Sri Lankan nationals residing in Mangalore without valid documents. As a result, 38 Sri Lankan nationals were arrested on June 6, 2021, in Mangalore. Further investigations unveiled that these individuals had been brought to Mangalore from Sri Lanka via Tamil Nadu and Bengaluru.
Imran Khan, in collaboration with a Sri Lankan national named Eesan, devised a plan to illegally transport these Sri Lankan nationals to various locations in Tamil Nadu. They enticed the victims with false promises, including the prospect of obtaining legitimate documentation for emigration to Canada and securing job opportunities. Imran Khan and other co-accused trafficked the Sri Lankan nationals to Bengaluru and Mangalore.
The NIA has filed a preliminary chargesheet against five Indian accused individuals, namely Dhinakaran alias Ayya, Kasi Viswanathan, Rasool, Satham Ushen, and Abdul Muheetu, in October 2021. So far, a total of 13 suspects have been arraigned in the case by the NIA. The investigations into this case are ongoing, and the agency is determined to uncover the full extent of the international human trafficking conspiracy.
The arrest of Imran Khan marks a significant development in the fight against human trafficking in India. The NIA’s relentless efforts and coordination with local law enforcement agencies have led to the apprehension of a key suspect who played a pivotal role in the illicit transport of Sri Lankan nationals. The successful capture of Imran Khan serves as a warning to other criminals involved in similar activities and sends a strong message that law enforcement agencies will not rest until justice is served.
This arrest also highlights the need for stronger cooperation among countries to combat human trafficking, which is a global challenge. It is crucial to address the root causes of trafficking, enhance border security, and ensure effective prosecution of those involved. The NIA’s investigation is not only focused on apprehending the perpetrators but also on dismantling the entire network that facilitates human trafficking.
Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that preys on the vulnerable and exploits their hopes for a better life. It is imperative that we join forces to eradicate this heinous crime and protect the lives and dignity of all individuals.
