Shocking Human Trafficking Case Unfolds in Kanpur

A disturbing human trafficking case has emerged from Kanpur, where a 21-year-old woman was sold by her childhood friend for 300,000 rupees. After her family reported her missing, police launched an investigation that led to her rescue in Rajasthan. The accused have been arrested, but authorities are concerned about a larger trafficking network. The victim is now safe and receiving counseling to help her recover from the traumatic experience. This incident raises serious questions about trust and safety in personal relationships.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 9, 2026, 04:08 IST

Young Woman Goes Missing After Trip to Khatu Shyam

On April 21, a young woman from Kanpur visited Khatu Shyam Ji with her childhood friend and the friend's husband. When she failed to return home for several days, her mother grew worried and reached out to her daughter's friend. The response she received left her in shock.

Disturbing Human Trafficking Incident in Kanpur

A harrowing case of human trafficking has emerged from the Barra area of Kanpur. A 21-year-old woman was sold by her childhood friend for just 300,000 rupees. Fortunately, police managed to rescue her from the Sikar district in Rajasthan. The groom involved in the case has been apprehended, while authorities are actively searching for the friend and her husband.

Details of the Trip to Khatu Shyam

According to local police, the victim worked at a nearby factory. She had gone to Khatu Shyam Ji with her childhood friend Riya Pandey and Riya's husband, Sumit Pandey. After several days without contact, the victim's mother reached out to Riya and Sumit.

Threats from the Friend

Initially, both Riya and Sumit assured the mother that her daughter would return soon. However, Riya later threatened her over the phone, claiming that the young woman had been sold for three lakh rupees and that money was needed for her return. Shortly after, both their phones were turned off. The family promptly filed a complaint with the Barra police.

Forced Marriage Under a New Identity

The police successfully located the young woman and arrested a local laborer, Pradeep Vishwakarma, who had been forced into marriage with her. DCP South Deependra Nath Chaudhary revealed that Riya and Sumit had sold the victim under the threat of death. They changed her name to 'Kajal' and arranged her marriage to Pradeep on April 30, complete with new documentation.

Mother's Reaction

The victim's mother shared that her daughter worked in the factory to support the family financially. The trip to Khatu Shyam was planned by Riya, and the family never suspected that she could orchestrate such a heinous act.

Police Actions Intensified

Authorities have intensified their efforts to apprehend Riya Pandey and Sumit Pandey, employing raids and technical surveillance. They face serious charges including human trafficking, abduction, forced marriage, and intimidation. Interrogations of Pradeep Vishwakarma are ongoing, and police suspect this may not be an isolated incident, prompting an investigation into a larger network. The young woman is currently safe, but counseling is being provided to help her recover from the trauma.