In a significant operation, the Crime Branch of Goa Police has arrested two individuals for allegedly trafficking a woman to Muscat under false promises of employment. The accused, Sayyed Abdulla Shaikh (35), a helper at MPT, and Masthan Khan alias Pathan from Margao, posed as unauthorized overseas recruiting agents and deceived the victim into traveling abroad for a promised housemaid job.
According to the complaint filed by Mr. Arunendra Pandey, Founder and Director of NGO ARZ in Vasco, the victim was trafficked between October 19 and October 28, 2024. Upon arrival in Muscat, she was confined with 11 other Indian women in inadequate living conditions, before being transported to a sheikh’s house, where she was coerced into providing sexual favors.
An FIR was registered under CB P.S. Crime No. 125/2024 on November 17, 2024, invoking relevant sections of the BNS-2023 and the Emigration Act, 1983. Under the supervision of SP Crime Rahul Gupta, IPS, and Dy. SP Crime Rajesh Kumar, a team led by PI Neenad Deulkar apprehended the accused using technical surveillance. Both suspects have confessed to their involvement. Investigations are ongoing, and Goa Police is coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Oman through the Ministry of Home Affairs to rescue the other stranded women.
Goa Police has emphasized the importance of dealing only with authorized recruitment agents. Currently, there are 12 registered recruitment agents in Goa, including R B Consultants, Mubeen Air Travels, Aman Travel Service, ASMMACS, M. I. International Travel Agency, N D Global Solutions Private Limited, Talent Hunt Consultancy, Ocean Travels, Pyramid Travels, Novalife Consultancy Private Limited, Jobsite Overseas Consultants, and Starlite Inter. Citizens are urged to avoid unregistered agents and verify the credentials of recruitment agencies through official channels.
The police also advised individuals seeking jobs abroad to confirm their visa type, as employment on a tourist visa is prohibited, and ensure they receive an employment contract before leaving the country.
The Home Department has instructed inspections of all recruitment agencies operating in Goa to curb illegal practices. Goa Police has appealed to the public to report any instances of fraud or exploitation related to overseas employment.
