16 October,2026 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya Iyer
Director General of Police Dr Sadanand Date
Tracing financial transactions, analysing digital evidence, and using cyber forensics to uncover trafficking networks were among the key techniques discussed at a state-level Maharashtra Police conference on human trafficking held in Mumbai on Thursday. At Nyaya Setu 2026, Police Inspector Jaywant Jadhav and Srinivasan G of Maharashtra Cyber, who led the workshop, trained officers in cyber forensics, tracing payment trails and securing digital evidence in accordance with legal provisions.
The conference, held in Fort, brought together nodal officers of anti-human trafficking units (AHTUs) of Deputy Superintendent of Police rank, along with police personnel from across the state.
. The importance of digital evidence in trafficking investigations is evident in a separate Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into an alleged network that trafficked Indians to Southeast Asian countries under the pretext of lucrative overseas jobs.
. In May this year, the CBI announced action against the network, alleging that victims were taken to scam compounds primarily in Myanmar and Cambodia, under the pretext of overseas jobs and forced to participate in cyber-enabled fraud.
. The agency conducted coordinated searches at nine locations across four states, including Mumbai, Delhi, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. One accused was arrested in Lucknow.
. Investigators analysed financial transactions, including cryptocurrency transfers, and seized electronic devices containing alleged incriminating evidence.
. "Preliminary findings indicated that agents received payments from operators of the scam compounds in exchange for supplying Indian nationals," an investigating officer privy to the case had told mid-day earlier.
Maharashtra Director General of Police (DGP) Dr Sadanand Date, who presided over the inaugural session, stressed the importance of thorough investigations, victim protection, and sustained efforts to dismantle organised trafficking networks.
Organised in accordance with Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines and with its financial support, the conference focused on improving training, inter-agency coordination, and collaboration with civil society organisations to address challenges such as low public awareness and non-registration of cases.
Former DGP Dr PM Nair led sessions on emerging trafficking trends, changing methods and investigation techniques, from initial reporting to chargesheet filing.
Women and Child Development Commissioner Varsha Laddha outlined government care schemes, protection mechanisms and rehabilitation frameworks for survivors. Advocate Geeta Godambe, former Assistant Director of Prosecution, discussed presenting evidence and challenges in securing convictions.
Civil society partner Prakruthi conducted a session on trauma-informed responses and the role of NGOs in supporting survivors after rescue.
