Employment Visa Scam: Mangaluru Man Loses ₹16 Lakh
A distressing case of financial fraud has come to light in Karnataka’s Udupi district, where a young man from Vadderahobli in Kundapur lost ₹16 lakh to a Mangaluru-based agency that promised a UK employment visa within 90 days.>
The aspirant, whose identity is withheld for privacy, responded to a Facebook advertisement promoting visa services from the so-called "UK‑IN‑REGAL ACADEMY" located in Kodialbail, Mangaluru. He paid an initial ₹2 lakh in cash and later transferred ₹3 lakh on October 27, 2023, followed by ₹13 lakh on December 1, 2023, from a relative's bank account to complete the ₹16 lakh payment.>
After failing to receive the promised visa, the victim revisited the agency in March 2024. The agency representative issued a stamped promise to deliver the visa within three months or refund the money within six. A post-dated cheque for ₹16 lakh dated October 3, 2024, was later handed over — but bounced for insufficient funds in December.>
The Kundapur police have registered a case under Sections 318(4) and 316(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the matter is now under formal investigation.>
Context & Warning:
This incident echoes a broader trend of fake overseas job visa scams in the region. In May alone, over 300 job seekers were duped of more than ₹8 crore by a single agency, prompting demands for a deeper probe into operating models. Many victims, like the Mangaluru aspirant, shared their trauma in press briefings, warning others to remain vigilant.>
Expert Advice:>
- Due diligence is crucial: Always verify credentials of recruitment firms through official government or embassy channels.>
- Avoid availing services through social media ads: Genuine visa facilitators follow formal processes, rarely found via Facebook.>
- Insist on written contracts and receipts: Seek refundable payment options, and avoid full upfront transfers.>
- Report suspicious activity early: Contact the Protector of Emigrants (PoE) and local police at the first sign of irregularities.>
Bottom Line:
This unfortunate case serves as a hard lesson for aspiring migrants—cross-border job seekers must remain cautious of seemingly attractive offers, and vet agencies thoroughly before committing large sums.>
