Vadodara: The Local Crime Branch (LCB) of Anand district has arrested a man accused of defrauding 32 job seekers from Gujarat by promising them employment and work permits in Russia, collecting nearly Rs 93 lakh before leaving them stranded abroad.
Accused and Modus Operandi
The accused, Rimpalkumar Arvindbhai Patel (36), a resident of Sundara village in Petlad taluka, was arrested following a complaint lodged at Petlad Rural police station. He allegedly promised jobs in Russia with monthly salaries of around Rs 1.3 lakh and collected approximately Rs 2.9 lakh from each applicant for visa processing, travel, and recruitment expenses. The victims hailed from several districts, including Anand, Vadodara, Navsari, and Surat.
Victims' Ordeal Abroad
After reaching Russia, many victims discovered that the jobs and conditions promised did not materialize. Some reported poor living and working conditions, while others alleged that their passports were withheld and that they were asked to pay additional amounts to facilitate their return to India.
Investigation Underway
Investigators stated that the case involves complex contractual and employment-related issues that are still being examined. "We are trying to establish the exact nature of the recruitment process and employment arrangements," said LCB police inspector C P Chaudhary.
Around 20 workers are believed to be still in Russia, police said. Preliminary findings suggest that some were recruited for jobs such as tailoring and work in fishing companies. Most traveled under formal employment agreements valid for two years, which reportedly included provisions for accommodation and travel expenses upon completion of the contract.
Police are also looking into allegations that workers were required to pay additional sums, including US$ 500 and, in some cases, nearly one lakh Russian rubles. Authorities are scrutinizing documents and financial transactions to determine whether such payments were authorized under contractual terms.
Police Appeal
Several workers have since returned to Gujarat and approached police with complaints, prompting the LCB to launch a detailed investigation. Police have appealed to anyone who traveled to Russia through Kiyana Recruitment Private Limited, or who has information related to the case, to come forward.
An offence has been registered under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of criminal liability and identify other individuals involved in the recruitment process.
