Delhi Court Denies Bail to Accused Trafficker in Russia-Ukraine War Involving Indians

The Delhi court has denied bail to a man accused of trafficking Indian citizens to Russia. Special Judge Atul Krishna Agrawal refused relief to Mumbai resident Micheal Elangovan Anthony, who claimed innocence. The judge stated that the allegations against the accused are severe and that granting bail at this stage could hinder the ongoing investigation.

There is also concern that the accused may attempt to destroy evidence that has yet to be obtained. Additionally, there is a possibility that he may assist other accused persons in evading the legal process. Anthony had sought bail, asserting that he himself was a victim of the trafficking racket and falsely implicated in the case.

He was arrested on April 26 and has been in custody since. According to the CBI, the accused and his alleged accomplices trafficked Indian nationals to Russia under the guise of providing them jobs in the Russian army, such as security guards and helpers, in exchange for money. The victims were trained in combat roles, provided with Russian army uniforms and badges, and deployed in war zones against their will, endangering their lives.

The CBI also alleged that some victims suffered serious injuries. Furthermore, the racketeers purportedly deceived Indian students by promising them admission to questionable private universities in Russia. They offered free or discounted visa extensions and manipulated fee structures, leaving the students at the mercy of visa agents and college authorities.

The CBI claimed that upon arrival in Russia, the passports of the victims were confiscated by the agents. *This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed. *