July 3, 2026

. NEW DELHI: Dealing with fuel shortages after Ukrainian attacks damaged its refineries, Russia has started importing gasoline from India.Petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri, however, said no Indian refiner – private or state-run – has dealt directly with Russian agencies and that the purchases must have been made through a trader.“Because of damage to its refineries due to the war, Russia has probably started buying gasoline from India. As far as I know, it has not been bought from any of our companies. It is the purchase of Indian-origin products from a trader,” minister said.According to Reuters, at least 60,000 metric tonnes of gasoline were dispatched from India to Russia on Wednesday.India is the world’s fourth-largest refiner and exports petroleum products – petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, bitumen, naphtha and lubricants – to a host of countries, including Singapore, South Korea, Japan and the UAE and African nations.Puri said India also purchases crude from other countries through traders, adding that cargo imported from Venezuela was an example of the same.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAtul MathurAtul Mathur is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India with over 27 years of experience in journalism. Based in Delhi, he has spent much of his career reporting on governance, public policy and politics, churning out researched, data-driven stories that impact daily lives. Atul is known for investigative depth and strong human-interest narratives as he strives to bring clarity and context to complex issues. He currently tracks the energy sector, writing on power, renewable energy, coal and mines.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCentre To Summon Meta Over Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse: Report’Police Are Not Servants Of CM Or PM’: Bombay High Court Quashes SDPI Leader’s ExternmentFour Former AIADMK Ministers Switch To TVK; Fresh Political Churn Leaves Six Assembly Seats VacantKarur Stampede Flashpoint: TVK-DMK Clash; Former CM Allegedly Blamed For Loss Of LivesTwin-Flower Symbol Under Threat As EC Examines Mamata And Ritabrata Faction ClaimsRam Mandir Donation Row Deepens As Vinay Katiyar Claims Trust Officials Could Face Jail’Unfortunate, We Are All Hurt’: RSS Issues First Statement On Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Donation Theft’SC Raises Questions But Grants Relief To Sonam In Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Appeal’Will Surrender Before Court’: Jailed Gangster Anmol Bishnoi Wants To Join Salman Khan Firing TrialIndia Set For Major Defence Boost As DAC Reviews HAMMER, Verba And MP-ATGM Deals123PhotostoriesMany men ignore these symptoms until it’s too late: Doctor explain the warning signs of prostate problemsGood or bad? Here’s what psychology really says about live-in relationshipsAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh just declared utility dressing the ultimate ‘Alpha’ promotion uniformWhat happens before prayers are answered? 5 signs mentioned in spiritual traditions7 traditional Indian foods that can naturally improve your gut health, according to nutritionist10 types of travel partners that can turn a dream trip into hard workHusband filed for divorce? Here are 7 legal rights he cannot take away from wifeDoctors warn that diabetic kidney damage often has no symptoms: These everyday habits can help lower the risk10 cheapest countries to visit in 2026 offering incredible value for Indian travellersMonsoon is here: 7 fascinating birds closely linked to India’s rainy season, and where to find them123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingBrittany MahomesTravis KelceKansas CityFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins
. NEW DELHI: Dealing with fuel shortages after Ukrainian attacks damaged its refineries, Russia has started importing gasoline from India.Petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri, however, said no Indian refiner – private or state-run – has dealt directly with Russian agencies and that the purchases must have been made through a trader.“Because of damage to its refineries due to the war, Russia has probably started buying gasoline from India. As far as I know, it has not been bought from any of our companies. It is the purchase of Indian-origin products from a trader,” minister said.According to Reuters, at least 60,000 metric tonnes of gasoline were dispatched from India to Russia on Wednesday.India is the world’s fourth-largest refiner and exports petroleum products – petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, bitumen, naphtha and lubricants – to a host of countries, including Singapore, South Korea, Japan and the UAE and African nations.Puri said India also purchases crude from other countries through traders, adding that cargo imported from Venezuela was an example of the same.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAtul MathurAtul Mathur is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India with over 27 years of experience in journalism. Based in Delhi, he has spent much of his career reporting on governance, public policy and politics, churning out researched, data-driven stories that impact daily lives. Atul is known for investigative depth and strong human-interest narratives as he strives to bring clarity and context to complex issues. He currently tracks the energy sector, writing on power, renewable energy, coal and mines.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCentre To Summon Meta Over Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse: Report’Police Are Not Servants Of CM Or PM’: Bombay High Court Quashes SDPI Leader’s ExternmentFour Former AIADMK Ministers Switch To TVK; Fresh Political Churn Leaves Six Assembly Seats VacantKarur Stampede Flashpoint: TVK-DMK Clash; Former CM Allegedly Blamed For Loss Of LivesTwin-Flower Symbol Under Threat As EC Examines Mamata And Ritabrata Faction ClaimsRam Mandir Donation Row Deepens As Vinay Katiyar Claims Trust Officials Could Face Jail’Unfortunate, We Are All Hurt’: RSS Issues First Statement On Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Donation Theft’SC Raises Questions But Grants Relief To Sonam In Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Appeal’Will Surrender Before Court’: Jailed Gangster Anmol Bishnoi Wants To Join Salman Khan Firing TrialIndia Set For Major Defence Boost As DAC Reviews HAMMER, Verba And MP-ATGM Deals123PhotostoriesMany men ignore these symptoms until it’s too late: Doctor explain the warning signs of prostate problemsGood or bad? Here’s what psychology really says about live-in relationshipsAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh just declared utility dressing the ultimate ‘Alpha’ promotion uniformWhat happens before prayers are answered? 5 signs mentioned in spiritual traditions7 traditional Indian foods that can naturally improve your gut health, according to nutritionist10 types of travel partners that can turn a dream trip into hard workHusband filed for divorce? Here are 7 legal rights he cannot take away from wifeDoctors warn that diabetic kidney damage often has no symptoms: These everyday habits can help lower the risk10 cheapest countries to visit in 2026 offering incredible value for Indian travellersMonsoon is here: 7 fascinating birds closely linked to India’s rainy season, and where to find them123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingBrittany MahomesTravis KelceKansas CityFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan


Gasoline exports to Russia not through India’s refiners: Puri

NEW DELHI: Dealing with fuel shortages after Ukrainian attacks damaged its refineries, Russia has started importing gasoline from India.Petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri, however, said no Indian refiner – private or state-run – has dealt directly with Russian agencies and that the purchases must have been made through a trader.“Because of damage to its refineries due to the war, Russia has probably started buying gasoline from India. As far as I know, it has not been bought from any of our companies. It is the purchase of Indian-origin products from a trader,” minister said.According to Reuters, at least 60,000 metric tonnes of gasoline were dispatched from India to Russia on Wednesday.India is the world’s fourth-largest refiner and exports petroleum products – petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, bitumen, naphtha and lubricants – to a host of countries, including Singapore, South Korea, Japan and the UAE and African nations.Puri said India also purchases crude from other countries through traders, adding that cargo imported from Venezuela was an example of the same.



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Representative image NEW DELHI: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several beverage companies for alleged misbranding and making misleading claims by marketing their products as “energy drinks”.In a post on X, the food regulator said it had “issued notices to several beverage brands claiming to be ‘energy drinks’ for misbranding and misleading claims.”According to the FSSAI, “FSSAI has not notified any standard for ‘Energy Drink’ or similar products.” The regulator also clarified that the Food Category System under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, “is not intended for product naming or labelling purposes.”The regulator said food companies cannot make functional or therapeutic claims related to boosting energy, improving focus or addressing general weakness unless specifically permitted under the law.For products such as Hell Energy Drink and Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink, the FSSAI said claims relating to “boosting energy,” “enhancing focus,” and “aiding general weakness” are “not permissible for food products under the FSS Act 2006 and the Rules and Regulations made thereunder.”In the case of Red Bull Energy Drink, the regulator objected to claims such as “vitalizes body and mind,” “enhancing focus,” “boost energy levels,” and “aid in general weakness,” saying such functional or therapeutic claims are not permitted for food products.Similarly, for Sting Energy Drink, the FSSAI said claims including “stimulates mind energizes body,” “enhancing focus,” “boost energy levels,” and “aid in general weakness” violate provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act and related regulations.The action comes as the food regulator steps up scrutiny of product branding and labelling practices to ensure consumers are not misled and that companies do not imply regulatory recognition where none exists.Meanwhile, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the state would soon issue a fresh order to tighten enforcement against the sale of prohibited products near schools and introduce food standards for educational institutions.”I will issue a detailed order about prohibited items like gutkha and cigarettes being sold near schools in the coming days. Along with the FDA, it is also the responsibility of school principals to ensure such prohibited items are not sold within a 500-metre radius. I also appeal to parents to sensitise their children not to consume so-called energy drinks,” Mundhe told reporters.He said the FDA would issue food standards for schools within the next eight to ten days, covering food quality, nutritional standards and recommended diets for students.Referring to the FSSAI’s June 30 order, Mundhe said companies can no longer market their beverages as “energy drinks” because no such category exists under the regulator’s classification system.”There are some 10-12 companies in the country that have been issued notices by the FSSAI asking them not to describe their products as ‘energy drink’,” he said.Mundhe also said the Maharashtra FDA has recommended 25 reforms to strengthen food safety enforcement by tracing adulteration to its source instead of merely testing samples and taking action afterwards. He clarified that there is no ban on the sale of raw milk, but vendors must comply with all prescribed norms and regulations.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCentre To Summon Meta Over Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse: Report’Police Are Not Servants Of CM Or PM’: Bombay High Court Quashes SDPI Leader’s ExternmentFour Former AIADMK Ministers Switch To TVK; Fresh Political Churn Leaves Six Assembly Seats VacantKarur Stampede Flashpoint: TVK-DMK Clash; Former CM Allegedly Blamed For Loss Of LivesTwin-Flower Symbol Under Threat As EC Examines Mamata And Ritabrata Faction ClaimsRam Mandir Donation Row Deepens As Vinay Katiyar Claims Trust Officials Could Face Jail’Unfortunate, We Are All Hurt’: RSS Issues First Statement On Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Donation Theft’SC Raises Questions But Grants Relief To Sonam In Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Appeal’Will Surrender Before Court’: Jailed Gangster Anmol Bishnoi Wants To Join Salman Khan Firing TrialIndia Set For Major Defence Boost As DAC Reviews HAMMER, Verba And MP-ATGM Deals123PhotostoriesMany men ignore these symptoms until it’s too late: Doctor explain the warning signs of prostate problemsGood or bad? Here’s what psychology really says about live-in relationshipsAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh just declared utility dressing the ultimate ‘Alpha’ promotion uniformWhat happens before prayers are answered? 5 signs mentioned in spiritual traditions7 traditional Indian foods that can naturally improve your gut health, according to nutritionist10 types of travel partners that can turn a dream trip into hard workHusband filed for divorce? Here are 7 legal rights he cannot take away from wifeDoctors warn that diabetic kidney damage often has no symptoms: These everyday habits can help lower the risk10 cheapest countries to visit in 2026 offering incredible value for Indian travellersMonsoon is here: 7 fascinating birds closely linked to India’s rainy season, and where to find them123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingBrittany MahomesTravis KelceKansas CityFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan

Representative image NEW DELHI: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several beverage companies for alleged misbranding and making misleading claims by marketing their products as “energy drinks”.In a post on X, the food regulator said it had “issued notices to several beverage brands claiming to be ‘energy drinks’ for misbranding and misleading claims.”According to the FSSAI, “FSSAI has not notified any standard for ‘Energy Drink’ or similar products.” The regulator also clarified that the Food Category System under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, “is not intended for product naming or labelling purposes.”The regulator said food companies cannot make functional or therapeutic claims related to boosting energy, improving focus or addressing general weakness unless specifically permitted under the law.For products such as Hell Energy Drink and Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink, the FSSAI said claims relating to “boosting energy,” “enhancing focus,” and “aiding general weakness” are “not permissible for food products under the FSS Act 2006 and the Rules and Regulations made thereunder.”In the case of Red Bull Energy Drink, the regulator objected to claims such as “vitalizes body and mind,” “enhancing focus,” “boost energy levels,” and “aid in general weakness,” saying such functional or therapeutic claims are not permitted for food products.Similarly, for Sting Energy Drink, the FSSAI said claims including “stimulates mind energizes body,” “enhancing focus,” “boost energy levels,” and “aid in general weakness” violate provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act and related regulations.The action comes as the food regulator steps up scrutiny of product branding and labelling practices to ensure consumers are not misled and that companies do not imply regulatory recognition where none exists.Meanwhile, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the state would soon issue a fresh order to tighten enforcement against the sale of prohibited products near schools and introduce food standards for educational institutions.”I will issue a detailed order about prohibited items like gutkha and cigarettes being sold near schools in the coming days. Along with the FDA, it is also the responsibility of school principals to ensure such prohibited items are not sold within a 500-metre radius. I also appeal to parents to sensitise their children not to consume so-called energy drinks,” Mundhe told reporters.He said the FDA would issue food standards for schools within the next eight to ten days, covering food quality, nutritional standards and recommended diets for students.Referring to the FSSAI’s June 30 order, Mundhe said companies can no longer market their beverages as “energy drinks” because no such category exists under the regulator’s classification system.”There are some 10-12 companies in the country that have been issued notices by the FSSAI asking them not to describe their products as ‘energy drink’,” he said.Mundhe also said the Maharashtra FDA has recommended 25 reforms to strengthen food safety enforcement by tracing adulteration to its source instead of merely testing samples and taking action afterwards. He clarified that there is no ban on the sale of raw milk, but vendors must comply with all prescribed norms and regulations.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCentre To Summon Meta Over Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse: Report’Police Are Not Servants Of CM Or PM’: Bombay High Court Quashes SDPI Leader’s ExternmentFour Former AIADMK Ministers Switch To TVK; Fresh Political Churn Leaves Six Assembly Seats VacantKarur Stampede Flashpoint: TVK-DMK Clash; Former CM Allegedly Blamed For Loss Of LivesTwin-Flower Symbol Under Threat As EC Examines Mamata And Ritabrata Faction ClaimsRam Mandir Donation Row Deepens As Vinay Katiyar Claims Trust Officials Could Face Jail’Unfortunate, We Are All Hurt’: RSS Issues First Statement On Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Donation Theft’SC Raises Questions But Grants Relief To Sonam In Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Appeal’Will Surrender Before Court’: Jailed Gangster Anmol Bishnoi Wants To Join Salman Khan Firing TrialIndia Set For Major Defence Boost As DAC Reviews HAMMER, Verba And MP-ATGM Deals123PhotostoriesMany men ignore these symptoms until it’s too late: Doctor explain the warning signs of prostate problemsGood or bad? Here’s what psychology really says about live-in relationshipsAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh just declared utility dressing the ultimate ‘Alpha’ promotion uniformWhat happens before prayers are answered? 5 signs mentioned in spiritual traditions7 traditional Indian foods that can naturally improve your gut health, according to nutritionist10 types of travel partners that can turn a dream trip into hard workHusband filed for divorce? Here are 7 legal rights he cannot take away from wifeDoctors warn that diabetic kidney damage often has no symptoms: These everyday habits can help lower the risk10 cheapest countries to visit in 2026 offering incredible value for Indian travellersMonsoon is here: 7 fascinating birds closely linked to India’s rainy season, and where to find them123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingBrittany MahomesTravis KelceKansas CityFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan

Vamsikrishna 0
Representational AI generated image NEW DELHI: A 24-year-old graphic designer from Maharashtra’s Beed district, held captive in Myanmar and forced to work in cyber fraud operations, has told his family that around 800 Indians are facing a similar ordeal and that non-complying hostages are subjected to electric shocks, police said on Friday.The victim, a resident of Nandurghat in Kaij tehsil, has been held captive since last month after he fell prey to an online job offer promising a Rs 70,000 monthly salary for a graphic designing and data entry position in Bangkok.According to police, the man spotted an advertisement on social media and contacted the WhatsApp number provided. Believing the offer to be genuine, he boarded a flight from Pune to Bangkok on June 4. However, upon landing, he was abducted and trafficked to an undisclosed torture camp on the Thailand-Myanmar border, where all his essential travel documents were taken from him.The ordeal came to light when the man managed to make a WhatsApp call to his wife, narrating the horrific conditions of his captivity. He told her that 700 to 800 Indian youths are currently held hostage in these torture camps, including 20 to 25 from Maharashtra.During the call, he said hostages who refuse to comply are subjected to brutal electric shocks and forced to work 16 to 18 hours a day. He also told his wife that two to three captives who confronted their tormentors were brutally tortured to death, police said.His wife immediately approached the Beed cyber police and lodged a complaint. An FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act against unidentified agents and individuals.MEA informed, investigation underwayBeed cyber police inspector Nilesh Kele said the External Affairs Ministry has been informed about the matter. “Since it is an international matter, the MEA has been informed about it. Investigation is being conducted under the guidance of senior authorities. Other central investigative agencies are also working with the police in the case,” he said.Former state minister Dhananjay Munde has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding immediate government intervention for the safe extraction of those trapped in Myanmar.The scale of the crisisThe crisis is part of a larger regional problem. In August 2023, the UN estimated that more than 120,000 people, most of them men from Asia, had been forced to work in scam centres across Southeast Asia. These centres have been particularly prevalent in Myanmar, where they have generated billions of dollars for Chinese underworld crime syndicates and the various armed groups operating in border towns.While scam centres have popped up across the region, Myanmar has emerged as a hub for such operations, with armed groups and criminal syndicates running the torture camps with impunity. The centres are fed by a steady stream of aspiring migrant workers from all over the world, drawn by fake job offers promising high salaries.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCentre To Summon Meta Over Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse: Report’Police Are Not Servants Of CM Or PM’: Bombay High Court Quashes SDPI Leader’s ExternmentFour Former AIADMK Ministers Switch To TVK; Fresh Political Churn Leaves Six Assembly Seats VacantKarur Stampede Flashpoint: TVK-DMK Clash; Former CM Allegedly Blamed For Loss Of LivesTwin-Flower Symbol Under Threat As EC Examines Mamata And Ritabrata Faction ClaimsRam Mandir Donation Row Deepens As Vinay Katiyar Claims Trust Officials Could Face Jail’Unfortunate, We Are All Hurt’: RSS Issues First Statement On Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Donation Theft’SC Raises Questions But Grants Relief To Sonam In Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Appeal’Will Surrender Before Court’: Jailed Gangster Anmol Bishnoi Wants To Join Salman Khan Firing TrialIndia Set For Major Defence Boost As DAC Reviews HAMMER, Verba And MP-ATGM Deals123PhotostoriesMany men ignore these symptoms until it’s too late: Doctor explain the warning signs of prostate problemsGood or bad? Here’s what psychology really says about live-in relationshipsAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh just declared utility dressing the ultimate ‘Alpha’ promotion uniformWhat happens before prayers are answered? 5 signs mentioned in spiritual traditions7 traditional Indian foods that can naturally improve your gut health, according to nutritionist10 types of travel partners that can turn a dream trip into hard workHusband filed for divorce? Here are 7 legal rights he cannot take away from wifeDoctors warn that diabetic kidney damage often has no symptoms: These everyday habits can help lower the risk10 cheapest countries to visit in 2026 offering incredible value for Indian travellersMonsoon is here: 7 fascinating birds closely linked to India’s rainy season, and where to find them123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingBrittany MahomesTravis KelceKansas CityFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan

Representational AI generated image NEW DELHI: A 24-year-old graphic designer from Maharashtra’s Beed district, held captive in Myanmar and forced to work in cyber fraud operations, has told his family that around 800 Indians are facing a similar ordeal and that non-complying hostages are subjected to electric shocks, police said on Friday.The victim, a resident of Nandurghat in Kaij tehsil, has been held captive since last month after he fell prey to an online job offer promising a Rs 70,000 monthly salary for a graphic designing and data entry position in Bangkok.According to police, the man spotted an advertisement on social media and contacted the WhatsApp number provided. Believing the offer to be genuine, he boarded a flight from Pune to Bangkok on June 4. However, upon landing, he was abducted and trafficked to an undisclosed torture camp on the Thailand-Myanmar border, where all his essential travel documents were taken from him.The ordeal came to light when the man managed to make a WhatsApp call to his wife, narrating the horrific conditions of his captivity. He told her that 700 to 800 Indian youths are currently held hostage in these torture camps, including 20 to 25 from Maharashtra.During the call, he said hostages who refuse to comply are subjected to brutal electric shocks and forced to work 16 to 18 hours a day. He also told his wife that two to three captives who confronted their tormentors were brutally tortured to death, police said.His wife immediately approached the Beed cyber police and lodged a complaint. An FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act against unidentified agents and individuals.MEA informed, investigation underwayBeed cyber police inspector Nilesh Kele said the External Affairs Ministry has been informed about the matter. “Since it is an international matter, the MEA has been informed about it. Investigation is being conducted under the guidance of senior authorities. Other central investigative agencies are also working with the police in the case,” he said.Former state minister Dhananjay Munde has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding immediate government intervention for the safe extraction of those trapped in Myanmar.The scale of the crisisThe crisis is part of a larger regional problem. In August 2023, the UN estimated that more than 120,000 people, most of them men from Asia, had been forced to work in scam centres across Southeast Asia. These centres have been particularly prevalent in Myanmar, where they have generated billions of dollars for Chinese underworld crime syndicates and the various armed groups operating in border towns.While scam centres have popped up across the region, Myanmar has emerged as a hub for such operations, with armed groups and criminal syndicates running the torture camps with impunity. The centres are fed by a steady stream of aspiring migrant workers from all over the world, drawn by fake job offers promising high salaries.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosCentre To Summon Meta Over Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse: Report’Police Are Not Servants Of CM Or PM’: Bombay High Court Quashes SDPI Leader’s ExternmentFour Former AIADMK Ministers Switch To TVK; Fresh Political Churn Leaves Six Assembly Seats VacantKarur Stampede Flashpoint: TVK-DMK Clash; Former CM Allegedly Blamed For Loss Of LivesTwin-Flower Symbol Under Threat As EC Examines Mamata And Ritabrata Faction ClaimsRam Mandir Donation Row Deepens As Vinay Katiyar Claims Trust Officials Could Face Jail’Unfortunate, We Are All Hurt’: RSS Issues First Statement On Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Donation Theft’SC Raises Questions But Grants Relief To Sonam In Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Appeal’Will Surrender Before Court’: Jailed Gangster Anmol Bishnoi Wants To Join Salman Khan Firing TrialIndia Set For Major Defence Boost As DAC Reviews HAMMER, Verba And MP-ATGM Deals123PhotostoriesMany men ignore these symptoms until it’s too late: Doctor explain the warning signs of prostate problemsGood or bad? Here’s what psychology really says about live-in relationshipsAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh just declared utility dressing the ultimate ‘Alpha’ promotion uniformWhat happens before prayers are answered? 5 signs mentioned in spiritual traditions7 traditional Indian foods that can naturally improve your gut health, according to nutritionist10 types of travel partners that can turn a dream trip into hard workHusband filed for divorce? Here are 7 legal rights he cannot take away from wifeDoctors warn that diabetic kidney damage often has no symptoms: These everyday habits can help lower the risk10 cheapest countries to visit in 2026 offering incredible value for Indian travellersMonsoon is here: 7 fascinating birds closely linked to India’s rainy season, and where to find them123Hot PicksTrump tariffsLuka Modric Net WorthEPF Scheme 2026Amarnath Yatra 2026Income Tax Return FilingMumbai rainUS unemploymentMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingBrittany MahomesTravis KelceKansas CityFIFA World Cup 2026GTA 6 Estimated SizeNew England PatriotsCandace OwensFIFA War DecisionCA Toppers ListAnitha Radhakrishnan

Vamsikrishna 0