In a significant development amidst the ongoing deportation of illegal Indian immigrants from the US, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a travel agent accused of facilitating illicit migration through the notorious “donkey route.” This announcement was made in an official statement released on Sunday.
The suspect, identified as Gagandeep Singh, also known as Goldie, was arrested in Tilak Nagar, New Delhi. His arrest was part of an investigation stemming from a complaint lodged by a resident of Tarn Taran, Punjab, who fell victim to human trafficking after being sent to the US via this perilous route in December 2024.
The “donkey route” refers to an illegal passage utilized by migrants to reach countries like the US, Canada, and several European nations, often involving treacherous travel through multiple countries.
According to the NIA, the victim paid Gagandeep Singh Rs 45 lakh for the illegal journey to the US. However, the individual was deported along with 111 others on a US Air Force C-17 flight that arrived in Amritsar on February 15. Following his return to India, the victim filed a formal complaint against the travel agent.
The case initially began with the Punjab Police but was taken over by the NIA on March 13. Investigators uncovered that Goldie lacked the necessary license or legal authorization to operate a travel agency. He orchestrated illegal migrations using the donkey route, directing the victim’s journey through Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Further investigation has revealed that associates of the travel agent not only defrauded the victim of his money but also subjected him to physical assault during the migration process.
The NIA is continuing its investigation into this case.
