A former merchant navy captain has been arrested for allegedly operating an international cyber trafficking racket that targeted Indian youths with fake overseas job offers. The accused, identified as Nagesh Kumar alias “Captain Chauhan,” was apprehended in Chandigarh and brought to Agra on transit remand on May 14, 2026 (Thursday), according to police officials.
Authorities stated on May 15, 2026 (Friday) that the 35-year-old suspect lured youngsters from cities including Agra and Kanpur with promises of lucrative foreign employment opportunities. Victims were reportedly first sent to Thailand before being trafficked to Cambodia and Laos, where they were allegedly forced to work in cyber fraud centres linked to Chinese-run scam networks.
Investigators revealed that many victims were trapped in scam compounds and compelled to conduct online fraud activities targeting Indian citizens through WhatsApp calls and digital platforms. Those who resisted were allegedly confined, harassed, and pressured into repaying the expenses incurred for their travel and stay.
The cyber trafficking network came under investigation in September 2025 after several victims managed to return to India and approached law enforcement agencies. Police also confirmed that multiple accused connected to the racket have already been arrested, while further investigation into the international syndicate remains underway.
Officials believe the accused used his previous experience as a merchant navy captain and extensive international travel exposure to build overseas contacts and facilitate the trafficking operation across Southeast Asia.