Three Missing Indian Men Rescued by Iranian Police from Hostage Takers
Three Indian nationals from Punjab, who went missing in Iran after being lured with job offers in Australia, have been rescued by Iranian police in Varamin, southern Tehran. The men were allegedly abducted by a network of agents from Pakistan who demanded a ransom. The Indian Embassy in Tehran had actively pursued their case with Iranian authorities. The men were taken to Iran via Dubai as part of a "donkey route" scheme.
Unpacked:
The 'donkey route' refers to an illegal migration pathway commonly used by human traffickers to transport people from South Asia to Western countries. It involves moving migrants through several countries using clandestine means, often exposing them to dangerous conditions and exploitation, as seen in this case where the men were routed via Dubai to Iran on the promise of reaching Australia.
Individuals from Punjab are often targeted due to high unemployment, economic aspirations, and a strong desire for overseas job opportunities. Traffickers exploit these vulnerabilities by offering fake job promises, knowing that many people are willing to risk illegal migration for better prospects abroad.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran actively engaged with Iranian authorities, coordinating efforts to track down and rescue the abducted men. Iranian police responded by conducting operations in Varamin, southern Tehran, leading to the men's safe recovery. Diplomatic pressure and cooperation between both countries played a key role.
Human trafficking through Iran is a significant issue, with both local and foreign victims subjected to forced labor and exploitation. Migrants using illegal routes face high risks of abduction, violence, and extortion by criminal networks operating regionally, as highlighted in the U.S. State Department's 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report on Iran.