Kochi: A fresh arrest has been made on Thursday in a suspected human trafficking case linked to Kochi, where women were allegedly lured with promises of modelling opportunities in Dubai and later exploited.

Police said the latest arrest involves Mavelikkara native Sreekumar, also known as Bilal, deemed as a key suspect. The development comes as the investigation into the alleged network continues to widen, with officers indicating that more arrests may follow in the coming days.

The case is being probed by Kochi City police, with Maradu police leading initial action and a special investigation team now handling further enquiries.

Modelling promises and alleged exploitation in Dubai

The case was registered after two women approached police with complaints that they were taken to Dubai on the promise of modelling assignments.

According to their statements, they were confined to apartments after reaching the UAE and subjected to repeated abuse. The complaints also form the basis of the current investigation into how the alleged network operated across borders.

Police have not detailed all individuals involved at this stage, but officials confirmed that the allegations include coordinated recruitment and movement of women from Kerala to Dubai under false assurances of work opportunities.

Arrests in Kerala and interrogation of prime accused

Before the latest arrest, police had taken three women into custody in connection with the case. They include Toicy Sindhu from Guruvayur, Aleena Abraham from Ponguvila in Thiruvananthapuram, and Manjima from Ponnani.

Investigators also detained Stoy C. Sindhu, identified as the prime accused, after she was arrested in Mumbai while allegedly attempting to leave the country. She was brought to Maradu police station for questioning.

Police later said interrogation of the prime accused was expected to provide details about others linked to the alleged network and how it functioned. She was remanded for 14 days.

Authorities also stated that two more women, currently abroad, are yet to be arrested as part of the ongoing probe.

Allegations of coercion, recordings and digital evidence

The investigation includes allegations that victims were forcibly confined in Dubai apartments and subjected to abuse.

Police sources said the accused may have used victims in a wider network of exploitation. There are also indications being examined regarding whether survivors were used in other activities, including possible gold-related smuggling links, though this remains under investigation.

Remand records and police findings cited allegations that explicit recordings were made and shared, and that images of women were circulated to potential clients for selection and negotiation. Screenshots and messaging records are among materials reportedly collected by investigators.

One victim also alleged physical assault and threats after raising concerns, according to case details being examined by police.

Network structure and widening investigation

Investigators believe the accused operated across locations, with links extending from Kerala to international destinations. The arrest of Bilal on Thursday is being treated as part of efforts to identify the wider structure of the alleged network.

Police have indicated that questioning of those in custody is ongoing, and that further arrests are likely as more details emerge about the movement of women and financial transactions linked to the case.