New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a key accused from Hisar who was allegedly involved in a human trafficking network that sent Indian nationals to scam compounds in Southeast Asia under the false promise of lucrative overseas job opportunities.
Indian youth lured with fake job offers, forced into 'cyber slavery'
According to the CBI, the investigation relates to a criminal network of agents and facilitators who recruited Indian citizens by offering attractive employment opportunities in Southeast Asian countries. The victims were later transported to scam compounds, mainly located in Myanmar and Cambodia, where they were allegedly subjected to conditions described as “cyber slavery”.
The accused, identified as Ankit, a resident of Hisar, allegedly sent at least four individuals from the Hisar region to scam compounds in 2025. Statements recorded from the victims revealed a pattern of deception, exploitation and coercion.
Victims forced to pay money to escape
The investigation revealed that some victims had to pay significant amounts of money to return home from these scam centres, while others were forced to arrange replacements before being allowed to leave.
The CBI said incriminating evidence recovered from the accused's mobile device indicated his links with recruiters operating scam compounds in Myanmar and Cambodia.
Crypto transactions under scanner
Several cryptocurrency-related transactions are also being examined as part of the investigation. The agency suspects these transactions were linked to commissions allegedly paid by scam compound operators to agents involved in recruiting and trafficking victims.
During questioning, the accused also revealed the use of social media platforms such as Instagram to advertise fake job opportunities and messaging applications like Telegram for communication with potential victims and associates.
CBI had registered case in December 2025
The CBI had earlier registered a case in December 2025 against a network of agents allegedly involved in trafficking Indian nationals to Southeast Asian scam compounds for “cyber slavery”.
As part of the same investigation, the agency conducted coordinated searches at eight locations across four states in May and June 2026 and arrested three accused linked to the trafficking network.
CBI issues warning against fake overseas job offers
The CBI has advised citizens to remain extremely cautious while responding to overseas employment offers circulated through social media platforms, messaging applications or informal contacts.
The agency urged people to verify the authenticity of job opportunities through official channels, warning that such fraudulent offers can result in financial losses, exploitation and serious legal, physical and psychological consequences.