ED raids 11 locations across Punjab, Haryana as a part of probe into 'donkey route' case

The Enforcement Directorate is carrying out searches at 11 location across Punjab and Haryana as a part of probe into ' donkey route' case linked to illegal Indian immigrants deported by the US in February this year.

ED's Jalandhar Zonal office has raided locations in Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala, Moga, Ambala, Kurushetra and Karnal. The investigation into the case was initiated on the basis of 17 FIRs registered by police authorities in Punjab and Haryana against the travel/Visa agents and middlemen who cheated with various persons willing to go to The US.

A number of Indians from the two states and few others were deported onboard US military planes in February this year and the agency later recorded the statements of few deportees.

During investigations it was found that agents used to target the innocent persons who were willing to go abroad and on the false promise of sending them through legal channels by charging huge amounts (approximately Rs 45-50 lakhs per candidate). However, the agents were found to be duping people as they were sent through illegal routes ( Donkey Route) by illegally crossing the borders of many countries through dangerous jungle routes under the influence of Donkers and Mafias.

⁠The agents in partnership with Donkers and Mafia would threaten the people and their families into paying more money.

Earlier, the ED had recorded statement of deportees and further examination revealed names of suspects, who are being searched today.