The Cyber Centre of Excellence of the Gujarat Police apprehended two men, Kaushik Pethani from Amreli and Dhruv Dobariya from Surat, for allegedly luring individuals with promises of lucrative overseas jobs and then exploiting them in cyber fraud activities abroad. Pethani, known as “Ali Baba” in cyber scam circles, reportedly managed the entire process of sending recruits to work in cyber slavery networks.
Authorities revealed that the accused duo targeted unemployed youths in Gujarat and other parts of India by offering high-paying jobs abroad and facilitating their travel to countries where cyber fraud centers were operational. The investigation led by Vivek Bheda, Superintendent of Police at the Cyber Centre of Excellence, exposed a recruitment network orchestrated by the suspects.
The accused allegedly utilized social media platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram to advertise overseas job opportunities, conducting interviews, providing training in communication and soft skills, arranging passports, booking flights, and organizing other travel logistics for the recruits. Once in countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, the victims were coerced into engaging in various cyber fraud schemes, with reports of physical and mental abuse for those who resisted participation.
Individuals recruited through this network were reportedly charged between Rs 70,000 and Rs 1.5 lakh each, with the operation extending its reach to Bangladesh and Pakistan. Pethani operated as the primary agent, with Dobariya assisting as a sub-agent, sending at least five people abroad. The investigation is ongoing to uncover additional network members and determine the full extent of the recruitment activities.
Authorities cautioned the public against falling for dubious overseas job offers and emphasized the need for vigilance regarding unfamiliar agencies or social media advertisements promising lucrative opportunities abroad.
