Assam Police have uncovered a major organ trafficking network in Nagaon district, arresting three key individuals involved in the illegal kidney trade, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent of Police Swapnanil Deka said the operation, carried out after days of investigation, exposed a network that had been active in the region for several years. The probe gained momentum following an awareness meeting on drug and illegal liquor issues organized by the Village Women’s Defence Force, which brought the illegal kidney trade to light.

The arrested suspects have been identified as Dharani Das alias Bogamula, Mahendra Das, and Deep Das. Interrogations revealed connections with other members from Kamrup and Guwahati, including a Hazarika from Baihata Chariali and an individual named Daulagapu.

Residents of Huz-Kaibarta village near Nagaon town reportedly resorted to selling kidneys due to poverty and health issues worsened by widespread illegal liquor consumption. Village headman Dipu Das said many villagers sold kidneys for Rs 3 to 5 lakh, only to return to poverty and substance abuse. In some cases, spouses forced the sale of kidneys.

Kidneys were reportedly smuggled to Kolkata through local brokers. Villagers who attempted to protest were threatened, keeping the community silent. Though a few arrests were made in 2021, the racket persisted until the recent crackdown.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to apprehend all involved and dismantle the criminal network.