Visa Fraud Case: Woman Cheated of ₹16.7 Lakh in India
A 25-year-old woman from Motera, Ahmedabad, has reportedly lost ₹16.75 lakh in a visa fraud case involving a local consultancy firm. The incident underscores the growing concern over fraudulent visa services targeting individuals seeking employment opportunities abroad.
Details of the Alleged Fraud
- Victim's Background: The woman, employed at a beauty parlour in Sargasan, was introduced to Narayan Consultancy through a friend. She was initially quoted ₹32 lakh for a Canadian work permit, which was later negotiated down to ₹30 lakh.
- Payment Structure: An agreement was made to pay the amount in two installments: ₹18 lakh upfront and ₹12 lakh subsequently.
- Unfulfilled Promises: Despite completing all necessary documentation and formalities, the promised Canadian work permit was never delivered. When the victim sought updates, the accused, Janak Patel, became unresponsive.
- Partial Refund: After persistent follow-ups, the victim received a partial refund of ₹13.25 lakh, leaving ₹16.75 lakh unpaid.
Legal Action and Investigation
The victim filed a complaint at the Infocity police station in Gandhinagar. An FIR has been registered against Janak Patel under charges of cheating and breach of trust. The police are currently investigating the matter to ascertain the full extent of the alleged fraud and to recover the remaining funds.
Advisory for Prospective Visa Applicants
This incident highlights the risks associated with unverified visa consultancy services. Authorities advise individuals to:
- Verify Credentials: Ensure that the consultancy firm is registered and has a credible track record.
- Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Be cautious of agents demanding significant sums before delivering any tangible results.
- Seek Official Channels: Whenever possible, apply for visas through official government portals or authorized agencies.
- Report Suspicious Activities: If you suspect fraudulent practices, report them promptly to local law enforcement agencies.
