Expat arrested for human trafficking

An Indian national has been arrested from Maldives on suspicion of involvement in human trafficking.

Venkataramana Palla, 20, was arrested on Thursday.

He was presented before the Criminal Court for his remand hearing on Friday.

The court remanded him in custody of the police for 15 days, citing sufficient evidence.

Court documents show Palla is believed to have been reported to be living in hiding from his sponsor.

He is believed to be part of a large human trafficking ring, which has roots both inside and outside Maldives.

The ring is believed to have trafficked multiple migrants.

The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the case.