Kerala Man Arrested by NIA for Organ Trafficking to Iran

Kochi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested the prime accused in a case involving trafficking of individuals from Kerala to Iran for illegal organ transplantation. Madhu Jayakumar, a native of Ernakulam, was taken into custody after his return from Iran on November 8, officials said.

According to sources, following the national agency's petition, Madhu was produced before the Court in Kochi on November 12. The court sent Madhu to NIA's custody till November 19.

The case came to light on May 18, 2024, when Kochi Airport Bureau of Immigration officials intercepted a youth suspected to be part of an organ-trafficking network. The investigation was initially handled by the Ernakulam Rural Police before being taken over by the NIA.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused targeted financially vulnerable individuals, luring them to Iran under the pretense of legal organ donation. The group also identified organ recipients and arranged their treatment in Iranian hospitals, falsely claiming the process was lawful.

Last year, the NIA filed a chargesheet against Madhu Jayakumar, along with Sabith, Sajith Shyam, and Bellamkonda Ram Prasad. In February 2025, an Interpol Red Corner Notice was issued against Madhu, who had been residing in Iran. According to NIA sources, Madhu’s arrest is a crucial development, as he had been overseeing the organ trafficking operations in Iran and coordinating with hospitals involved in the illegal activity.