Youth from Punjab Endure Brutal Torture on Dangerous Journey to US

• Three out of five youths lost their lives while trying to escape.
• Balwinder Singh and another survivor fled through Colombian forests.
• The family filed a complaint against four travel agents for fraud.
• Ministry of External Affairs is assisting Balwinder’s safe return.
• This incident highlights alarming trends in illegal immigration.

Tragic Journey of Punjab Youths Highlights Brutal Reality

Amid the incessant clamor surrounding illegal immigration, a harrowing incident has emerged, exposing the gruesome reality faced by countless individuals attempting to escape their circumstances. Five youths, hailing from Punjab and Haryana, have recently come forward with horrifying tales of torture as they navigated what is infamously referred to as the ‘donkey route’ to the United States. Sadly, it has been reported that three of them lost their lives, while Balwinder Singh, aged 25, managed to escape, along with another individual, to find refuge in a residential area of Colombia.

Abduction and Extreme Torture Spark Outrage

The torment of these youths came to light following a formal complaint lodged by Balwinder Singh’s family, who accused four travel agents of deceiving them under the guise of providing legal travel services to America. The family states that they were fleeced out of a staggering ₹28 lakh. Balwinder’s mother, Shinder Kaur, disclosed that her son was kidnapped by a notorious gang known as ‘donkers’ operating in the jungles of Panama and Colombia back in February 2025. These individuals subjected the youths to horrifying torture, which included methods such as electric shocks and the use of iron rods, to extort money from their loved ones. Disturbing video footage detailing these inhumane acts soon went viral, sending shockwaves through social media and drawing attention to the grim reality.

Escape to Safety Fuels Legal Action

Balwinder’s eventual escape on May 29 has only served to amplify the dire situation surrounding illegal immigration. His account details a desperate flight from imminent death, as the gang reportedly planned to execute captives after some families refused to pay the ransom demanded. With heavy hearts, families now mourn the loss of three youths who were not so fortunate. Encamped in the jungle without their passports or phones, it was sheer will and determination that led Balwinder and another companion to navigate through the dense wilderness and ultimately find safety. Balwinder’s family’s subsequent complaint against the travel agents—including names like Harbhajan Singh and Malkeet Singh—has further drawn attention to this pressing issue. They were swindled under pretenses of facilitating a legal journey to the U.S. in exchange for an exorbitant fee, in stark contrast to their grim experience.

Government Response Amid Rising Concerns

The Indian government has also taken notice, with Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal stepping into the fray. While currently in Canada, he has raised this intolerable matter with the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Indian embassy in Colombia has pledged its assistance. A new passport for Balwinder has reportedly been expedited, and plans for his return to India are underway. As crackdowns on undocumented migrants continue globally, this incident sheds light on the broader issue of human trafficking and illegal immigration, not just for India but worldwide, echoing similar incidents where desperate individuals are exploited for greed and profit.

This deeply troubling account shines a harsh light on the perils of illegal immigration and the lengths to which traffickers will go to exploit vulnerable individuals. With three lives lost, Balwinder’s escape underscores the urgent need for stronger protection and support for those caught in the intricate web of human trafficking. As the families seek justice against the local travel agents, it is imperative that authorities address these issues and take a stand against such heinous crimes, fostering safer and more lawful pathways for migration.