Kerala Migrant Worker Killed Amid Suspected Visa Fraud

A tragic incident unfolded involving a 47-year-old man from Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, who was shot dead by Jordanian soldiers while attempting to illegally cross into Israel. The victim, identified as Thomas Gabriel Pereira, was reportedly misled by a fraudulent agency promising Israeli work visas but was instead provided with Jordanian tourist visas.

Incident Details:

• Victim: Thomas Gabriel Pereira, an autorickshaw driver from Thumba, Kerala.
• Companions: Pereira was accompanied by three others, including his relative Edison, who also sought employment opportunities in Israel.
• Timeline:
  • The group departed for Jordan on February 5, 2025, under the impression that they would subsequently enter Israel for work.
  • They maintained contact with their families until February 9.
  • On February 10, while attempting to cross the Jordan-Israel border through a mountainous region, they were intercepted by Jordanian soldiers.
• Outcome:
  • Jordanian border guards opened fire when the group attempted the illegal crossing, resulting in Pereira's death from a gunshot wound to the head.
  • Edison sustained a leg injury and was subsequently deported to India after receiving medical treatment.
  • The other two individuals remain detained in Jordanian custody.

Family's Response:

• Pereira's family was initially unaware of his death until informed by Edison upon his return.
• The family has reached out to Norka Roots, a Kerala government agency for expatriates, seeking assistance in repatriating Pereira's body.
• Relatives expressed their distress and lack of information regarding the agency involved and the amount paid for the purported visas.

Authorities' Stance:

• Ajith Kolassery, CEO of Norka Roots, highlighted the prevalence of visa fraud in the region, noting that many individuals from coastal villages have been deceived by fraudulent agencies.
• He emphasized the need for increased awareness and proactive measures by the police to prevent such scams.

Political Reaction:

• Senior BJP leader Prakash Javadekar criticized the Kerala government, attributing such incidents to the state's failure to provide adequate employment opportunities, forcing youth to seek jobs abroad under risky circumstances.