Canadian Visa Fraud: CID Hunts Two in ₹2.33 Cr Case

The CID Crime Branch has launched a manhunt for two individuals accused of orchestrating a massive ₹2.33 crore Canadian visa fraud, which left a Gandhinagar-based consultant and his clients duped.

The Case

The complainant, Janak Jitendra Patel (34), who operates Narayan Consultant, alleged that Vadodara-based agent Gagandeep Amarpreeet Singh, along with associate SinSinwar Hambirsingh alias Virji, promised Canadian work permits and permanent residency to his clients. Patel entrusted them with 26 client applications and ₹3.66 crore between March 2022 and January 2024.

Of these applications, only one visa was approved, while the others were rejected. When Patel demanded refunds, Singh initially repaid ₹76 lakh and signed an agreement to return ₹2.63 crore in installments, but only ₹30 lakh more was returned.

Legal Action

Following the breach, Patel approached authorities, and an FIR was registered for cheating and criminal breach of trust. Both accused are currently absconding, and the CID Crime Branch has intensified efforts to trace them.

Rising Visa Frauds in Gujarat

This case adds to a growing list of visa scams in the state. Recent incidents include:

• A ₹1.62 crore scam where a Punjab agent duped an Ahmedabad consultant.
• A ₹81 lakh fraud involving a Surat firm that promised Canadian jobs.
• An Ahmedabad couple losing ₹21 lakh in a forged work permit deal.

The Bigger Picture

Officials caution that fraudulent agents often exploit the aspirations of youth seeking opportunities abroad. Experts advise verifying agents through official immigration portals and avoiding large upfront payments.

The CID has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious agents immediately.