Kerala police bust sex racket trafficking after victim’s revelations; ‘Nude videos sent to family’

Kochi: A complainant in the human trafficking and sex trade case allegedly run under the guise of modelling has made shocking revelations. Speaking to Mathrubhumi News, one of the complainants said she was subjected to extreme cruelty and abuse after being taken abroad. She alleged that she was drugged and made unconscious and sexually assaulted by several men, and that nude visuals were sent to her family members.

“They cheated us after taking money and taking us to Dubai. They mixed a white powder into drinks and forced me to consume it until I lost consciousness. After that, several of their men came there. I was physically tortured. They even mixed that powder in plain water and gave it to me. They called my family and spoke badly about me. They told them I was involved in immoral activities here and that different men kept visiting me. They even told my family to abandon me. They recorded nude videos and sent them,” the woman alleged.

The complainant said the accused took her to a flat after bringing her from India to Dubai, where she saw eight other young women as well. She also alleged that the accused threatened to kill her child. She finally managed to return home with the help of a relative.

According to Kaaliraj Mahesh Kumar, five people have so far been named as accused in the case involving human trafficking and prostitution under the cover of modelling. Three of them have been arrested. The prime accused, Sindhu, was caught at the Mumbai Airport while allegedly attempting to flee abroad. She will soon be brought to Kochi for questioning.

Police are also conducting a detailed investigation into the alleged links between the second accused, Aleena, and criminal gangs in Kochi. Another accused connected to the case was arrested on Tuesday, the commissioner said.

At present, two women have filed complaints, but police suspect there could be more victims. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by DCP Aswathy has been formed to investigate the case. Authorities said anyone wishing to file a complaint may contact the SIT or the women’s cell, and all information would be kept confidential.

Police said one of the complainants was taken abroad after being promised a beauty parlour job. She was later sexually exploited, while her phone and passport were confiscated. Nude visuals were allegedly recorded and used to threaten her. Another complainant was taken abroad under the pretext of modelling.

None of the complainants are from Ernakulam district. They were allegedly taken abroad on two-month visit visas during January and February, and later managed to return with the help of relatives. Police said the women faced threats even after attempting to lodge complaints upon returning home. Investigators are also examining Aleena’s alleged gang connections and the criminal backgrounds of the other accused, the city police commissioner added.