Lodge complaints regarding illegal recruitments and visa frauds, govt launches 'Operation Shubhayatra'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Expat Malayalis can now report their complaints directly regarding illegal recruitments to foreign countries and visa frauds. A 24-hour helpline number and e-mail IDs have been launched as part of Operation Shubhayatra jointly implemented by the Kerala Police, NORKA, and the Protector of Emigration at the Ministry of External Affairs. These are set by the Kerala Police. Non-residents can lodge complaints through e-mails spnri.pol@kerala.gov.in and dyspnri.pol@kerala.gov.in and helpline number 04712721547.

A joint meeting of Chief Minister, NORKA Roots, Protector of Emigration in the Ministry of External Affairs and Kerala Police was called after the visa fraud and employment frauds were noticed. Due to this, the state government decided to implement Operation Shubhayatra.

Currently, NORKA Department and NORKA Roots are taking immediate steps to bring back those trapped abroad through fake recruitment and human trafficking, with the help of Indian Embassy and expatriate organizations. Extensive awareness programs are also being organized against illegal recruitment and visa fraud. In addition to this, an extensive system has also been introduced for non-residents to file complaints directly and take legal action.

Actions are currently being taken based on confidential information about human trafficking through coastal areas and airports. The services of the cyber wing of the police are also being utilized to prevent recruitment scams through social media. State Cell with Crime Branch IG as the nodal officer is also functional. Anti-human trafficking units have also been formed in all police districts under the supervision of the nodal officer.