(MOGA, PUNJAB, INDIA) Police in Moga have booked three people after a 26-year-old man, Gaganjit Singh of Khukhrana village, died by suicide following an alleged visa fraud worth Rs 9 lakh.
According to the First Information Report and family statements, the accused—named as Ishpu Goyal, Rina Goyal, and Gurdip Singh Ahaluwalia—promised to arrange travel to Canada for Gaganjit but allegedly failed to deliver even after receiving large payments. The case has ignited anger and fear in local communities where overseas migration dreams run deep.
Families say Gaganjit grew increasingly distressed as months passed without a visa. The tragedy underscores how fraudulent promises can push victims into debt, shame, and legal trouble, and how a single failed plan can spiral into a fatal crisis.
Allegations, charges, and investigation steps
Police said the three have been booked under sections related to cheating and abetment to suicide.
- Investigators are reviewing payment trails and bank records after the family alleged the agents took an initial Rs 70,000, followed by further sums up to Rs 9 lakh through what relatives called a “complex” method involving blank cheques.
- In a separate blow, the family said one of the accused, Gurdip Singh, filed a case against Gaganjit in a Moga court, adding heavy pressure.
- The young man allegedly consumed a poisonous substance and died during treatment at Sri Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot.
As the probe moves ahead, officers said they will seek to trace funds and examine whether more complainants step forward with similar stories.
Important: Police sources say they will coordinate with cyber units if needed and trace bank accounts to see if funds were received from others with similar complaints.
A pattern of scams preying on migration hopes
Fraud around overseas migration has long shadowed districts in Punjab where many youths aim for Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Local families often pool savings, mortgage land, or sell jewelry to fund test prep, agent fees, and tuition—making them easy targets.
- Police describe a steady stream of complaints about fake job offers, forged letters, and false promises of “guaranteed visas.”
- In some cases, scammers allegedly use identity theft, fake KYC, and altered documents to push people through airports.
- Fraud networks often adapt quickly, shifting tactics when authorities close one loophole and finding another, especially where people are eager to leave fast (analysis by VisaVerge.com).
Neighbors say the Moga case has become a warning to others: ask for proof at every step, keep copies of all documents, and never hand over blank cheques.
Families told reporters that the pain is not only financial. When a plan to go abroad collapses, the shame of returning empty-handed, the fear of debt collectors, and community gossip can weigh heavily. In Gaganjit’s case, relatives say he felt cornered by mounting demands and court pressure.
Community leaders are urging parents to watch for signs of mental strain in young people dealing with visa delays, refusals, or suspected fraud, and to seek help early.
Police actions and legal advice for victims
Moga police say they are collecting statements, bank proofs, and phone records tied to the three accused. Officers urged residents to report suspected visa fraud at the earliest stage and keep every receipt.
Legal and procedural advice being shared locally includes:
- Lodge a detailed complaint listing each payment and attach copies of messages, recordings, and any signed documents.
- If cheques were provided, note cheque numbers and dates.
- Co-operate with investigations and provide phone, bank, and receipt evidence.
Families can also consult official resources such as the Government of India’s eMigrate portal for licensed recruitment information and official guidance for overseas work and migration processes, which can reduce risk compared with informal agents: eMigrate (Ministry of External Affairs).
Practical steps to reduce risk
To protect themselves, prospective migrants can take these steps:
- Ask for a written contract that clearly states services, timelines, and refunds.
- Pay by traceable methods; avoid cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- Verify the agent’s registration, physical office, and references.
- Never hand over passports or blank documents without a signed receipt.
- Be wary of “guaranteed visa” claims or offers that bypass normal checks.
- Confirm job offers directly with the overseas employer and embassy.
- Keep family informed about all payments and agreements.
Experts note fraudsters gain trust by speaking the local dialect, sharing staged photos or videos, or promising “fast-tracking.” Victims often pay because requests sound believable and mirror stories heard on social media or in coaching centers. In places like Moga, where migration stories are common, small claims can feel credible—so documentation and third-party verification are vital.
The human cost and community response
The hardest-to-measure impact is human. In this case, the word that keeps echoing is suicide—a loss that leaves a family with grief and unanswered questions.
Counselors working with migrant families say young people often hide stress to avoid worrying parents. When delays pile up, they may blame themselves. Families can help by:
- Normalizing refusals and the idea of trying again.
- Talking openly about debt plans.
- Keeping pressure low around timelines.
- Seeking help early if someone shows signs of panic, hopelessness, or shame.
If someone shows signs of severe distress, seek help from a doctor, counselor, or trusted elder. It is not weakness to ask for help; it is a step toward safety.
What to expect next legally
Police sources say charges against the accused in Moga will proceed through the courts, and more details may emerge as the investigation continues.
Lawyers expect the case to focus on:
- Whether promises were fraudulent from the start.
- What documents were provided to the victim.
- Whether pressure tactics were used to force more payments.
- The context and intent behind the alleged court case filed by an accused against the victim.
Officers are checking bank accounts linked to the accused to determine if other complainants exist and if funds were routed similarly.
Prevention efforts and community measures
VisaVerge.com reports Punjab authorities have stepped up awareness campaigns, but information gaps remain. Common traps still include claims to dodge English tests, fake college seats, or non-existent “work permits.”
Suggested prevention measures:
- Workshops at gurdwaras and village halls where licensed counselors explain real timelines and costs.
- Legal aid clinics to guide victims through complaints, refund claims, and possible civil recovery suits.
Final note
The Moga case stands as a stark warning: the pull of a foreign dream should never override basic checks. Gaganjit Singh’s death is a painful reminder that fraud is not only about money; it can cleave families and break communities.
Police urge anyone with information on the accused to come forward. For those chasing an overseas plan, remember: patience, paperwork, and proof are safer than shortcuts—no matter how tempting the promise.
This Article in a Nutshell
Gaganjit Singh, a 26-year-old from Khukhrana village, died by suicide after allegedly being defrauded of Rs 9 lakh by travel agents who promised to secure his travel to Canada. Moga police have charged Ishpu Goyal, Rina Goyal and Gurdip Singh Ahaluwalia with cheating and abetment to suicide. The family reported an initial payment of Rs 70,000 followed by further sums taken through complex methods including blank cheques. Investigators are examining bank records, phone data and payment trails and may involve cyber units to trace funds and identify other complainants. The case underlines a wider pattern of migration-related scams in Punjab and prompts calls for careful verification, traceable payments, and early reporting to protect prospective migrants.
