The Visakhapatnam police made another significant arrest on Sunday in the ongoing investigation into a human trafficking and cybercrime racket linked to Cambodia. The recent detention of Bongu Murali, a local from Prasad Gardens in One Town, brings the total number of individuals arrested in the case to 11.
Murali, who allegedly ran a business called Bhavana Fabricators and Engineering Works, is accused of trafficking unemployed youths to Cambodia with false promises of well-paying jobs in computer data entry. Once the victims arrived in Cambodia, they were coerced into participating in cyber scams targeting their own country.
The case came to light when a victim from Srikakulam reported his brother’s distress to the police. The victim had paid ₹1.6 lakh for a supposed data entry job, only to find himself forced into illegal activities.
Police investigations revealed Murali’s role in orchestrating the trafficking scheme, which involved arranging travel logistics through Akbar Travels in Mumbai, exchanging currency, and providing e-visas for the victims. Cambodian agents were also part of the operation, assisting with flight bookings.
Following Murali’s arrest, investigations continue as authorities look into the broader network involved in the human trafficking and cybercrime racket. Murali is also under investigation for multiple cheating charges in unrelated cases.
The crackdown, under the leadership of Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner A Ravi Shankar, Joint CP K Fakirappa, and Cyber Crime Inspector K Bhavani Prasad, has led to the rescue of victims from various parts of India, including Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, and several other cities. This operation, dubbed ‘Operation Cambodia’, has successfully uncovered the extent of the trafficking network operating internationally.
This case highlights the dangers of human trafficking disguised as legitimate employment opportunities, emphasizing the need for vigilance and public awareness in preventing such scams.
