In a major crackdown on visa fraud, Delhi Police have arrested an immigration consultant for allegedly cheating over 50 people of Rs 1.83 crore by promising them fake visas to various countries. The accused, identified as Rajesh Kumar, ran a consultancy firm in South Delhi's Lajpat Nagar area.
Modus Operandi
According to police, Kumar would lure clients with attractive offers of work visas to countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK. He would charge hefty fees ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh per person. After collecting the money, he would provide forged documents and fake visa stamps. When victims tried to travel, they were stopped at the airport.
Complaints and Investigation
The fraud came to light after several victims filed complaints at the Lajpat Nagar police station. A team was formed under Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sanjay Sharma. During investigation, it was found that Kumar had been running the racket for over two years. He used multiple bank accounts to deposit the money and frequently changed his phone numbers to avoid detection.
Police raided his office and residence, seizing several incriminating documents, including fake visa stickers, forged passports, and a laptop containing client data. Kumar was arrested from his hideout in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Victims' Ordeal
Many victims said they had sold property or taken loans to pay for the visas. One victim, a software engineer, said he paid Rs 4.5 lakh for a Canadian work visa. He was stopped at Indira Gandhi International Airport and later found out the visa was fake. Another victim, a nurse, had paid Rs 3 lakh for a UK visa and lost all her savings.
Police have urged other victims to come forward and file complaints. They are also investigating if Kumar had any accomplices. The accused has been booked under sections 420 (cheating) and 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) of the Indian Penal Code. He has been sent to police custody for further interrogation.
Warning to Public
Delhi Police have advised people to verify the credentials of immigration consultants through the Ministry of External Affairs website. They also warned against dealing with agents promising guaranteed visas. Anyone with information about such frauds can contact the police helpline.
The arrest has brought relief to many victims who had lost hope of recovering their money. However, police said it is unlikely that the entire amount will be recovered as Kumar had spent a large portion on luxury items and foreign trips.
