Visa Scam: Rs 1.5 Crore Fraud, MBA Graduate Arrested
Police Bust ₹1.5 Crore Visa Scam, Arrest Key Accused After Months in Hiding
In a major breakthrough, Panchkula Police have arrested a 35-year-old MBA graduate, Sahil Sharma, the alleged mastermind behind a ₹1.5 crore visa and fake job scam that targeted dozens of aspiring migrants across North India.
After evading authorities for several months, Sharma was finally traced and arrested in Jaipur, following coordinated efforts by the Panchkula Crime Branch and local Rajasthan police.
Fake Promises of Overseas Jobs and Visas
Police investigations revealed that Sharma posed as an overseas employment consultant, claiming to arrange work visas and job placements in countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
He operated under different business names in Ludhiana, Zirakpur, and Yamunanagar, luring job seekers with the promise of high-paying jobs abroad. Victims were charged hefty sums — between ₹5 lakh and ₹14 lakh — for fake documentation, visa processing, and job offers.
To appear genuine, Sharma reportedly issued forged air tickets, counterfeit offer letters, and fake embassy receipts, tricking applicants into believing their visas were approved.
Massive Recovery and Evidence Seized
During the operation, police recovered:
- ₹26.5 lakh in cash
- Gold and diamond jewellery worth over ₹1.25 crore
- 12 mobile phones, several passports, multiple ATM cards, and a luxury SUV
Authorities said Sharma used multiple SIM cards and fake bank accounts to conceal his identity and move frequently between states. His arrest came after one of his close associates was caught last month, leading investigators to his Jaipur hideout.
Legal Action and Public Advisory
Police have charged the accused under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, including cheating and forgery. Investigators are also tracing his financial network and possible links to other fraudulent recruiters operating in northern India.
Officials have urged citizens to avoid unregistered visa consultants and always verify whether an agency is authorized under the Emigration Act, 1983. Applicants are also advised to check government registration numbers, request written contracts, and retain all payment receipts.
Growing Crackdown on Fake Visa Networks
Authorities say the case reflects a disturbing trend of rising immigration fraud, where unlicensed agents exploit people’s dreams of working abroad. The successful operation by Panchkula Police demonstrates a renewed crackdown on such scams.
“People must remain cautious and verify every claim before paying money for a visa or job offer,” a police spokesperson said. “Strict legal action will continue against those cheating innocent citizens.”