Visa Racket Unveiled: How a Punjab Agent’s Scheme Was Exposed
In an eye-opening incident, Delhi Police have recently brought to light a visa racket involving a Punjab-based agent, identified as Varinder Singh, aged 58. This operation sheds light on the growing issue of fake visas and the individuals behind these fraudulent activities.
What Happened?
The racket came to the attention of authorities after a young man, 20-year-old Abhi, faced deportation from Thailand on February 8. The reason? His passport contained a fake Malaysian ‘arrival stamp’ which, upon inspection, lacked any corresponding stamps to validate its authenticity. Following this discovery, Delhi Police embarked on an investigation, uncovering the depth of this deceitful practice.
The Promise of Overseas Travel
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (IGIA), Usha Rangnani, Varinder Singh had promised to facilitate Abhi’s travel to Malaysia via Thailand through unconventional means, for a substantial fee of Rs 1 lakh. Abhi’s first installment included Rs 36,000 through bank transfer and Rs 14,000 in cash, with the remaining amount to be paid upon successful arrival in Malaysia.
Upon his arrival in Bangkok with a visa-on-arrival, Singh arranged a three-month tourist visa for Abhi in Thailand. Subsequently, fake Malaysian arrival stamps were placed on Abhi’s passport. However, when attempting to leave Thailand for Malaysia, Abhi was detained by Thai Police for overstaying his visa.
The Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Efforts to capture Singh led Delhi Police to multiple locations, culminating in his arrest at Punjab’s Fatehgarh Sahib. Singh, who admitted to entering the visa fraud business as a means to make quick money, was previously employed as a driver. The investigation continues as authorities probe whether other agents are involved in a larger network of visa fraud.
Protecting Yourself from Visa Frauds
This incident serves as a cautionary tale for individuals seeking overseas travel opportunities. Ensuring the legitimacy of visa agents and the documents they provide is crucial to avoid falling victim to such scams. For reliable information and guidance on visa applications, visit the official government immigration website.
Final Thoughts
The busting of this visa racket by Delhi Police is a significant step towards curbing the menace of fake visa operations. It is a reminder of the importance of vigilance and due diligence in the pursuit of overseas travel opportunities.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Delhi Police unraveled a visa scam involving Punjab agent Varinder Singh, exposing fake visas. A young man’s deportation from Thailand revealed the illicit operation. Singh promised overseas travel using fake stamps for Rs 1 lakh. Arrested in Punjab, Singh confessed, shedding light on the scheme. Beware and verify visa agents for safe travels!
