Crime – Teen Missing From Jabalpur Found Trafficked, Forced Into Marriage
Crime – A young woman reported missing from Madhya Pradesh was traced to Rajasthan after months, revealing a disturbing case of trafficking and abuse.
A 19-year-old woman who disappeared from Jabalpur district in Madhya Pradesh late last year has been rescued from Rajasthan, where she was allegedly sold and forced into marriage. Police officials confirmed on Friday that the victim endured prolonged exploitation before being located and brought back safely.
Investigation Leads Police to Rajasthan
According to officials, a missing person complaint was filed in December at Adhartal Police Station. Following this, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to track the young woman’s whereabouts. During the course of the investigation, officers received crucial information indicating that she had been taken to Rajasthan.
Acting on this lead, a police team traveled to the state and successfully located the woman. She was then brought back to Jabalpur, where authorities recorded her statement and began piecing together the sequence of events that led to her disappearance.
Job Promise Used as Lure
During questioning, the victim revealed that she had previously worked at a clothing shop with a man identified as Javed. He allegedly introduced her to a woman named Poonam, claiming she could help her secure better employment opportunities.
Trusting the promise of a new job, the young woman accompanied Poonam. For nearly two to three weeks, she stayed with her and carried out small tasks. Poonam later told her that she would take her to Ujjain to arrange stable work, further gaining her confidence.
Sale and Forced Marriage
The situation took a serious turn when Poonam introduced the victim to another individual named Ishwar. Police said that all three accused allegedly conspired to sell the woman to a man in Rajasthan.
The buyer, identified as Paras, reportedly paid around Rs 2 lakh. He then forced the victim into marriage and kept her with him for nearly two months. During this time, she was subjected to repeated sexual assault and physical abuse.
Authorities described the case as a clear instance of human trafficking combined with exploitation under the guise of marriage.
Arrests and Ongoing Search
Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 64, along with sections related to human trafficking. So far, two accused—Javed and Poonam—have been taken into custody.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects, including Ishwar and Paras, who are currently absconding. Officials said teams have been deployed to track them down and ensure they face legal action.
Police Emphasize Vigilance
Senior police officials highlighted the importance of public awareness in preventing such crimes. They urged individuals, especially young job seekers, to verify employment offers and avoid trusting unknown intermediaries without proper checks.
The rescued woman is now receiving support, and authorities have assured that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure her safety and justice in the case.