UK Visa Fraud: Three Agents Booked in ₹86 Lakh Scam

Three visa agents in Ahmedabad have been booked for allegedly duping multiple individuals of ₹86.20 lakh by promising fraudulent UK work and student visas. The accused—identified as Nirav Patel, Mayank Patel, and Vishnu Patel—are currently under investigation for criminal breach of trust, cheating, and forgery.

The complaint was lodged by 21-year-old Man Brahmbhatt, a native of Manipur currently residing in Ahmedabad. He approached the agents in November 2024, submitting his original passport, academic records, and other documents with the assurance of receiving a UK student visa. However, when he returned in March 2025 to follow up, the visa consultancy office was found shut and the agents unreachable.

Subsequent investigations revealed at least three more victims, including Dhruv Barot, who was defrauded of ₹35 lakh, Yagnesh Patel (₹8 lakh), and Jigar Patel (₹13.20 lakh). All were reportedly issued fake documents such as Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and Certificates of Sponsorship (COS) to support their UK visa applications.

Authorities believe more victims may be involved and have urged the public to come forward with information. A police spokesperson confirmed that charges have been filed under sections pertaining to cheating, forgery, and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code.

The case has once again highlighted the urgent need for tighter regulation and verification processes in the overseas education and immigration consultancy sector.