In a major visa fraud case in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district, two individuals and their associates are accused of duping a youth from Vachhoda village, Porbandar taluka, of Rs 19.80 lakh by promising a work visa for the UK.
According to officials, after an investigation, two of the accused have been arrested, and legal proceedings are in progress. The official noted that such visa fraud cases have been increasing, with fraudsters preying on unsuspecting individuals by making false promises of overseas employment.
The victim, Sunil Sarmanbhai Gorania, was assured a UK work visa without an interview for a total cost of Rs 26.50 lakh. However, he made an initial payment of Rs 19.80 lakh. The accused, Mayur Rameshbhai Barmela and Shyamal Ranchhodbhai Patel, convinced Sunil that he could secure a job in the UK’s construction sector for a minimal fee. They falsely arranged an “interview” at the UK Home Office, but no visa was issued. Sunil was later told his application had been canceled. When he requested a refund, the accused threatened him with violence.
Porbandar’s Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Sahitya V., has initiated a detailed inquiry following the complaint. A case was filed at Kamalbagh Police Station, leading to the swift arrest of the two main suspects. Sub-Inspector A.B. Desai is handling the investigation, and further inquiries are underway to apprehend other individuals involved in the scam.
Visa fraud cases have surged in Gujarat, with reports indicating a 113% increase over the past three years. Between 2020-21 and 2022-23, authorities registered 139 complaints related to visa scams, leading to 114 arrests. The financial losses amounted to approximately Rs 74.15 lakh, of which Rs 41.14 lakh has been recovered.
In another incident, a businessman from Vastral, Ahmedabad, accused two visa consultants of defrauding him and others of Rs 41.50 lakh under the guise of securing U.S. visas. The consultants promised expedited visa appointments but failed to deliver, and legal action is underway.
Another case in Gandhinagar involved four visa agents who allegedly deceived 23 people, stealing over Rs 8 crore by promising overseas opportunities.
