NAMSAI, 6 Sep: In a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into suspected child trafficking and illegal placement of children, the Namsai police have so far traced/rescued 38 persons, comprising 34 children and four adults, from different locations.

The investigation is being conducted in connection with Namsai PS Case No 54/2026.

The case is being investigated by SDPO Kengo Dirchi, under the supervision of Namsai SP Sangey Thinley, in close coordination with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU).

As the investigation progressed and further links emerged, another main facilitator, Rupali Padung, was arrested in connection with the case, taking the total number of persons arrested to four.

Her alleged role, along with the roles of other persons connected with the transportation and placement of the victims, is being investigated in accordance with the law.

"Investigation is continuing to establish the complete chain of facilitators, transportation and placement of the victims, financial transactions, electronic evidence, and other links connected with the case," the Namsai police informed in a release.

The persons with whom the children/persons had allegedly been placed, as well as the parents/guardians concerned are also being examined as part of the investigation. "Their individual roles and circumstances are being verified, and necessary legal action is being initiated, wherever warranted, on the basis of evidence," the release said.

The CWC and the DCPU have extended necessary coordination and support in relation to the care, protection, counselling, rehabilitation and welfare of the children rescued during the investigation, it said, adding that the Namsai police remain committed to identifying the entire network and taking appropriate legal action against every person whose involvement is established during investigation, while ensuring the safety, dignity and rehabilitation of the victims.