Assam: 19 children rescued, 3 arrested in Namsai child trafficking probe

Guwahati: In a major breakthrough in an ongoing investigation into a suspected child trafficking and exploitation network, Namsai Police have so far recovered 19 children from different locations, including Mechuka, Aalo, Pasighat, Naharlagun, Itanagar and Longding, and arrested three alleged brokers.

The case was registered at Namsai Police Station on 17 August 2026, following a complaint received from the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Namsai.

Considering the seriousness and inter-district nature of the case, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted under the close monitoring and supervision of Sangey Thinley, APPS, Superintendent of Police, Namsai, assisted by Dy.SP (HQ) Martin Ratan.


The investigation was entrusted to Dy.SP Kengo Dirchi, APPS, SDPO Namsai, as the Investigating Officer (IO). The SIT comprises Insp. T. Gadi, OC Namsai PS, SI R. Kahik, and other police officers and personnel of Namsai Police.

During the course of investigation, Gumnya Kochung, Marta Ete and Neha Gerory were arrested for their alleged roles as facilitators/brokers.

Preliminary investigation indicates that economically vulnerable families were allegedly approached with assurances of better education, care and upbringing for their children. The children were thereafter allegedly procured, transported and placed with different persons at distant locations.

In certain cases, suspected monetary consideration ranging approximately from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000 per child has emerged. The investigation has also revealed suspected instances where some parents/guardians allegedly received monetary consideration in connection with handing over their children. The circumstances and individual roles of all persons concerned are being independently investigated.

Some of the children were allegedly engaged as domestic helpers and in hotel-related work.

A particularly concerning aspect of the case is the very young age of the children. A majority of the recovered children are reportedly below eight years of age. During preliminary interaction, some were unable to recall even their parents’ names or basic details of their families. The youngest child identified was reportedly about three years old at the time of procurement/placement.

Following recovery, necessary medical examinations and child-protection procedures have been undertaken, and the children have been produced before the competent Child Welfare Committee (CWC). Their statements are also being recorded before the Magistrate in accordance with law, following a child-friendly and sensitive process.

The identities, photographs and other particulars capable of identifying the children are being strictly protected in accordance with law.

The SIT is also examining financial transactions, call records, digital evidence, movement of the children and links among alleged facilitators, receivers and other persons to establish the complete chain and individual roles on the basis of evidence.

The recovery of 19 children does not mark the conclusion of the operation. Police teams are continuing efforts to trace and recover more children and identify other persons who may be involved in the suspected network.

Namsai Police appeal to members of the public having any information regarding children who may have been taken, procured, transported or placed with other persons under similar circumstances to immediately approach the nearest Police Station or Child Welfare Committee.

Parents and guardians who may have handed over their children through any intermediary or facilitator are also requested to come forward and provide information. Every credible input will be promptly verified, with the safety, dignity, privacy and best interests of the children remaining the foremost priority.

The investigation and recovery operation are continuing.