Human Trafficking Network Busted in Delhi-NCR; Over 30 Children Sold

Shaik Ashraf, a 36-year-old man from Hyderabad, was trafficked to Myanmar and later arrested in Thailand after refusing to engage in internet fraud. According to his family, he initially traveled to Dubai in August 2023 for job opportunities but fell victim to a Chinese travel agency's scheme promising employment in Thailand.
Upon arrival in Bangkok, Ashraf was taken to an undisclosed location in Myanmar where he was coerced into illegal activities and subjected to physical torture when he declined. The family reported that the traffickers demanded a ransom of $5,000 for his release, and in a desperate attempt to secure his freedom, Ashraf's wife borrowed approximately ₹350,000 ($4,200) for this purpose. Despite paying the amount, Ashraf was arrested by Thai authorities immediately after entering the country from Myanmar.
The External Affairs Ministry of India has been informed of the situation, but the family has yet to receive assured assistance. A local social worker, Amjed Ullah Khan, highlighted the hardships faced by Ashraf's family in securing help from the government.