A deeply emotional case of human trafficking has come to light from Bihar’s Araria district, where a 55-year-old woman was finally reunited with her son after a separation that lasted 13 years. The reunion marked the end of a long, painful journey involving deception, abuse, and an unwavering fight for justice.

The victim, Zarina Khatoon, said her son Jamshed—also known as Munna—was trafficked in 2012 when he was just 12 years old.

“They Promised Education, But Took My Son Away”

Breaking down in tears, Zarina recalled how villagers persuaded her to send her son to Bhadohi in Uttar Pradesh, claiming he would be enrolled in a madrasa. At the time, her husband was physically and mentally unwell, and she was managing the household alone.

“They took advantage of our helplessness and took my child away,” she said.

FIR Filed, Struggle Intensified

Soon after, Zarina realised she had been cheated and filed an FIR against three men—Mohammad Javed, Murshid, and Dukhkhan—accusing them of human trafficking. Instead of relief, the complaint brought further hardship.

Evicted From Village, House Damaged

Zarina alleged that after filing the FIR, her family was driven out of Kerala village under the Bounsi police station. Their home was damaged, and they were forced to live on the roadside in Araria town. Despite the hardships, she refused to withdraw the case.

Faith in Justice Pays Off

Maintaining faith in the legal system, Zarina continued her fight. The main accused, Mohammad Javed, was arrested, and three months ago the ADJ-IV court in Araria rejected his bail plea, directing him to ensure Munna’s safe return.

Sold for ₹15 Lakh, Tortured for Years

According to Zarina, her son was sold for around ₹15 lakh. Munna was taken from Bhadohi to the Andaman Islands and later to Myanmar, where he was subjected to brutal treatment. He was forced to work day and night, often denied food, injected with drugs, and beaten severely—especially when he tried to escape.

On December 26, Munna was dropped at the Araria railway station. When he returned to his village, he found his home deserted.

Mother and Son Reunited

With the help of local police and the Child Welfare Committee, Munna was reunited with his mother on Monday. Kidnapped at 12, he is now 25 and hopes to rebuild his life with his family.

Munna Recalls His Ordeal

Munna recounted being moved from Bhadohi to the Andaman Islands and then to Myanmar, where he endured inhumane conditions. Later abandoned in Nagaland, he travelled by trucks and tankers before finally reaching Araria.

Police to Crack Down on Trafficking Network

Araria SDPO Sushil Kumar said Munna will be presented before the court and questioned to uncover the full trafficking network. Authorities have assured that all those involved will be arrested.