Human Trafficking Ring Exposed in Maharashtra–Gujarat Corridor

Mumbai, Feb 9, 2026: In a significant operation against organised crime, Maharashtra Police have uncovered a large human trafficking racket operating across the Maharashtra–Gujarat corridor. The joint operation led to the rescue of 18 women and four minors who were allegedly trafficked for forced labour and illegal employment over the past year. Seven accused have been arrested so far, while police are searching for key absconding suspects.

According to officials, the racket lured victims from economically weaker regions with promises of well-paying jobs in factories, hotels, and private households. Once transported to urban centres, their identity documents were confiscated, and they were forced to work under exploitative conditions with little or no pay. Some victims were allegedly threatened with violence if they tried to escape.

The case came to light after a 17-year-old girl managed to alert a local NGO, which then informed the police. Acting on this tip-off, authorities conducted multiple raids in industrial zones, residential complexes, and roadside lodges. The operation was carried out over three days with assistance from child welfare committees and social workers.

During the raids, police recovered forged documents, mobile phones used to coordinate transport, and detailed records of payments made by employers to traffickers. Investigators revealed that the gang functioned through middlemen who recruited victims from rural areas and handed them over to city-based handlers for a commission.

A senior police officer stated that the accused earned lakhs of rupees every month by supplying labour illegally. “This was not a small operation. It was a structured network exploiting vulnerable people under the guise of employment,” the officer said.

All rescued victims have been shifted to safe shelters and are undergoing medical check-ups and counselling. Legal procedures are being initiated to reunite minors with their families and rehabilitate adult victims.

The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, and the Juvenile Justice Act. Police officials confirmed that further arrests are likely as the investigation expands into neighbouring states.

Human rights activists have welcomed the action but stressed the urgent need for stricter monitoring of labour recruitment agencies. The case once again highlights how poverty and lack of awareness continue to be exploited by organised crime groups in India.