Delhi Police Crack Down on Travel Agencies Over Fake Overseas Job Scams
In a significant crackdown on fraudulent employment practices, the Delhi Police have registered two separate cases against travel agencies operating in the capital. These agencies are accused of systematically duping individuals with promises of lucrative jobs abroad, only to leave them stranded in foreign countries with no employment or support.
Two Victims, Similar Stories of Deception
The first complaint was filed by Sahil Ali, a doctorate holder from Uttar Pradesh. According to his brother Rashid, who spoke to authorities, Sahil was promised a job in Malaysia by one of the agencies based in southeast Delhi's New Friends Colony. After paying substantial fees, Sahil traveled to Malaysia only to find no job waiting for him. He was left stranded for nearly two months, during which his family received no communication from him despite repeated attempts.
"After almost two months of uncertainty, Sahil managed to contact his family and urgently requested them to book a return ticket," Rashid stated. Authorities eventually traced Sahil's whereabouts, and he is expected to return to India on Wednesday, bringing an end to his harrowing ordeal.
Second Victim Stranded in Saudi Arabia
The second case involves Ritesh Kumar, a resident of Gopalganj in Bihar. Kumar filed a complaint alleging that a Delhi-based agency had promised him employment in Saudi Arabia. However, upon arrival, he was presented with work completely different from what had been promised. When Kumar expressed his desire to return home, he found himself stranded without assistance or means to leave.
A senior police officer investigating the case revealed, "We found both establishments were closed when we visited. These agencies specifically target individuals from small villages in other states, luring them with enticing promises of high-paying jobs abroad that never materialize."
Legal Action Under Emigration Act
Officials from the Office of the Protector of Emigrants confirmed that the implicated agencies are not registered under the Emigration Act, 1983, and therefore lack authorization to conduct overseas recruitment. Police have registered First Information Reports (FIRs) under Sections 10 and 24 of the Emigration Act against both agencies.
"The people who were duped come from economically vulnerable backgrounds and see overseas employment as a pathway to better livelihoods," explained a senior police officer. "These fraudulent agencies exploit their aspirations for financial gain."
Pattern of Similar Frauds
This is not an isolated incident. In January of this year, police registered two additional cases following complaints from three men who were similarly cheated by two different recruitment firms. The pattern suggests an organized network of fraudulent operators targeting job seekers with false promises of overseas employment.
The Ministry of External Affairs has been actively involved in these cases, receiving complaints directly from victims and their families. The ministry's intervention has been crucial in tracing stranded individuals and facilitating their return to India.
Warning to Job Seekers
Authorities have issued a strong warning to individuals seeking overseas employment opportunities. They advise thorough verification of recruitment agencies through official channels, including checking registration status under the Emigration Act and consulting with the Protector of Emigrants office before making any payments or commitments.
The Delhi Police investigation continues as they work to identify and apprehend those responsible for these fraudulent operations. The cases highlight the need for greater vigilance among job seekers and stronger regulatory oversight of overseas recruitment agencies operating in India.
