KATHMANDU, NEPAL (Feb. 11, 2025) — Surendra B.K., 37, a resident of Shahid Lakhan Rural Municipality in Gorkha, was arrested on charges of defrauding an individual out of approximately $75,000 by falsely promising successful U.S. immigration. The arrest took place in Kathmandu-14, following a report to the District Police Office, Kathmandu.
Multiple Suspects Involved in Fraudulent Immigration Promises
Surendra B.K. is one of four suspects detained for similar fraudulent activities across Nepal. Police have also arrested Sunil Dasoudi, 25, from Salyan; Bikas Dawadi, 31, from Kavre; and Bishakha Poudel, 24, from Kathmandu. The four suspects allegedly scammed victims out of approximately $100,000 in total, promising immigration opportunities to the U.S., Serbia, Japan, and Kuwait.
Superintendent of Police Kaji Kumar Acharya confirmed that the police investigation is ongoing, with the suspects facing charges for their involvement in defrauding victims.
Growing Trend of Fraudulent U.S. Immigration Schemes
Cases of scammers offering fake U.S. immigration opportunities are increasingly common in Nepal. Many victims are misled with promises of work visas, student visas, or permanent residency in exchange for large sums of money. This trend is becoming more concerning, as many people desperate to migrate are seeking out illegal routes, including human trafficking operations.
Reports suggest that human traffickers are smuggling Nepali citizens into the U.S. via Mexico, charging up to $100,000 per person for this perilous journey. Those who attempt the illegal route face high risks of arrest, detention, and even death.
U.S. Border Patrol Encounters Rising Numbers of Nepali Nationals
The U.S. Border Patrol has reported a significant increase in the number of Nepali nationals attempting to enter the U.S. without proper visas. Over 2,600 Nepalis were apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border during the first eight months of the 2024 fiscal year. In total, the U.S. Border Patrol encountered nearly 8,000 Nepalis attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border without visas between 2014 and 2024, with the highest number recorded in 2023 at 3,140 individuals.
These figures highlight the growing trend of Nepali nationals seeking illegal immigration routes, often facilitated by human traffickers, and the heightened concern around fraudulent immigration schemes exploiting these individuals’ desires for better opportunities abroad.
Investigation Ongoing
Nepal’s authorities, in collaboration with local and international agencies, continue to investigate the fraudulent activities of these scammers. Meanwhile, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant against such schemes and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
