Panchkula man loses ₹20L in immigration fraud, 2 booked

A resident of Sukhomajri village near Kalka has approached the police after alleging that he was duped of ₹20 lakh by a supposed immigration consultancy in Mohali. Gurbant Singh, a local businessman, said he contacted RG Immigration Services, located at Phase-1 in Mohali, with the intention of sending his son abroad to Canada. The service allegedly promised a swift visa process and took the full amount before disappearing, leaving the family without any documentation or recourse.

Singh’s complaint was filed at the local police station, where officers confirmed that two individuals associated with the service have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The case underscores the growing concern over fraudulent immigration agents operating in the region, particularly those who target families seeking overseas opportunities for their relatives.

Immigration fraud has become a persistent issue across many parts of Punjab and Haryana, with victims often losing large sums to unregistered agents who promise guaranteed visas, work permits or scholarships. In recent years, several complaints have been lodged with the police, but the rapid evolution of such scams makes it challenging for law enforcement to keep pace. Authorities have repeatedly warned the public to verify the credentials of any consultancy before making payments, emphasizing that legitimate immigration processes are conducted through authorized channels and do not require upfront lump‑sum payments.

The incident involving Singh highlights the vulnerability of families who rely on agents for complex immigration procedures. While the exact details of the fraud remain under investigation, the booking of two suspects signals that police are taking steps to address the matter. The case also serves as a reminder for prospective immigrants to conduct thorough research, seek recommendations from trusted sources, and avoid any service that demands large payments without clear, verifiable documentation.

As investigations continue, the police have urged anyone else who may have interacted with RG Immigration Services to come forward with additional information. The department reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens from financial exploitation and promised to take appropriate legal action against those found guilty of fraudulent activities.

Source: Hindustan Times