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In a tragic incident, a man accused of aiding in the smuggling of individuals across the US-Canadian border has been arrested for his involvement in a case that led to the deaths of an Indian family due to blizzard conditions.

Details of the Case

Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel, also known as "Dirty Harry," is facing seven counts of human smuggling and is scheduled to appear in federal court in Minnesota. He is accused of hiring Steve Shand to drive four Indian nationals from the Canadian border to the Chicago area, where they tragically lost their lives due to freezing conditions. Shand, who was previously charged with human smuggling, has maintained his innocence and remains free pending trial.

Smuggling Operation

Patel's alleged involvement in a human trafficking group based in India was revealed through unsealed court documents. The group reportedly facilitated the entry of Indian nationals into Canada on student visas before transporting them to the Chicago area. Once in the US, the migrants were made to work at Indian restaurants for low wages to repay their debts to the smugglers.

Tragic Outcome

The harrowing ordeal came to light when a rented van, driven by Shand, was stopped by the US Border Patrol in Minnesota. Two individuals from Gujarat were found inside the van, having entered the US illegally, while five others were discovered walking in sub-zero temperatures. Tragically, a family of four, including young children, became separated from the group and lost their lives due to the extreme conditions near the border.

WhatsApp Messages

Disturbing messages exchanged via WhatsApp between Shand and Patel revealed their awareness of the blizzard conditions. Patel instructed Shand to ensure that everyone was prepared for the harsh weather, indicating a callous disregard for the safety of the individuals being smuggled. This tragic incident has brought to light the ruthless nature of human smuggling operations.

The victims, identified as Jagdish Patel, Vaishaliben, their 11-year-old daughter Vihangi, and 3-year-old son Dharmik, sought a better life in the US. Despite being educated and having worked as teachers in India, they succumbed to the treacherous conditions they faced during their attempt to cross the border.

International Response

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has expressed shock and dismay over the deaths of the Indian family, describing their fate as "mind-blowing." The tragedy has prompted a closer examination of border security and the dangers faced by individuals attempting to enter the US through illicit means.

End of Operations

Investigations have revealed that Patel paid Shand a substantial sum for multiple trips to the border, indicating the lucrative nature of the smuggling operation. The unsealing of court documents has shed light on the extent of Patel's involvement in the illicit transportation of individuals across the US-Canadian border.