Indian authorities have apprehended four individuals accused of “trafficking” Indian citizens to join the Russian army in Ukraine.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion two years ago, a significant number of Russian soldiers have perished in Ukraine, prompting Moscow’s search for additional troops worldwide.
At least two Indian soldiers have lost their lives in the conflict, with multiple recruits disclosing to AFP that they were deceived and sent to the frontlines under false pretenses.
A statement from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) released late Tuesday confirmed the arrest of four men, including one with prior work experience in Russia as a translator for a network involved in recruiting Indian soldiers.
The CBI statement noted ongoing investigations into other individuals linked to this international human trafficking network.
These arrests follow raids conducted two months ago across 13 locations in India, leading to the detention of several individuals for questioning. The CBI revealed at that time that they had identified at least 35 instances of Indians being dispatched to Russia.
India’s foreign ministry had previously announced efforts to secure the discharge of approximately 20 Indian nationals serving in the Russian army.
Recruits interviewed by AFP in February disclosed being enticed by promises of lucrative salaries and Russian passports before being deployed to the frontlines. Although assured of non-combatant roles, they were trained in combat techniques and armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles before deployment to Ukraine.
Russia has successfully thwarted a Ukrainian counter-offensive and gained ground on the front lines amid Kyiv’s challenges with ammunition and manpower shortages.
India, a longstanding ally of Russia, has refrained from openly condemning the Ukrainian invasion.
Despite significant economic growth, unemployment persists in India, leading many to seek employment opportunities abroad. This trend includes a surge in individuals seeking work in Israel following labor shortages triggered by military actions in Gaza.
