The Kapurthala police have registered a case against four individuals, including a woman, for allegedly defrauding a family of ₹26.45 lakh on the pretext of processing their immigration to Canada. The accused have been identified as Sarabjit Kumar (alias Sarabjit Raj), Rashid Masih, Deep Bhatia, and Ravika.
Complainant's ordeal
Raj Kalyan, a resident of Mohalla Topkhana, Kapurthala, filed a complaint with SSP Gaurav Toora stating that he wanted to settle in Canada with his family. Through a relative, he was introduced to Sarabjit and Rashid, who agreed to handle the immigration process for ₹50 lakh.
In January 2023, Sarabjit contacted Kalyan and asked for passport copies of his wife and children along with email IDs, demanding an initial payment of ₹3.20 lakh. Over time, the accused instructed him to transfer and hand over money on multiple occasions. They later requested additional funds for filing the Canada Embassy application, medical examinations, and other formalities.
False assurances and repeated demands
Kalyan alleged that the accused continuously assured him that his file was progressing and kept demanding more money. He was also asked to obtain a heavy driving licence and undergo a medical examination. Subsequently, he was informed that his work permit had been rejected and that an additional ₹7 lakh was required to secure another visa opportunity. Trusting their assurances, he borrowed money from relatives and handed over cash and passport documents to a person allegedly sent by the accused.
Threats and mental stress
When the promised immigration process failed to materialize, Kalyan demanded the return of his money. Instead, the accused began threatening him, causing severe mental stress. He also revealed that he had sold his house in hopes of moving abroad.
Police investigation
Following the complaint, SSP Toora ordered an inquiry by the DSP, Kapurthala. The investigation revealed that Kalyan had paid ₹16.20 lakh in cash to Deep Bhatia at his telecom shop near Kacheri Chowk, Kapurthala, while ₹3.75 lakh was paid to Ravika. Additionally, 700 pounds and 6,589 pounds were transferred to the bank account of Sarabjit’s son Solomon, who resides in England. The total amount cheated was determined to be ₹26.45 lakh.
Legal action
Based on the findings, the police have booked Sarabjit Kumar, Rashid Masih, Deep Bhatia, and Ravika under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The investigation is ongoing.
