A major Dehradun Immigration Fraud case has surfaced in Dehradun, where a Himachal Pradesh woman alleges she was cheated of ₹13.5 lakh by agents promising Croatia work permits. The accused reportedly used fake job offers and forged documents, leading to visa rejections. Police have registered an FIR and launched an investigation.
Quick Summary : Dehradun Immigration Fraud
- Location: Dehradun
- Victim: Rekha Sharma (Solan, Himachal Pradesh)
- Accused: Rajiv Sharma, Lovlesh, Seema Sharma (Ridhanya Placement Services)
- Fraud Amount: ₹13.5 lakh (₹18 lakh paid, ₹4.5 lakh returned)
- Visa Type: Croatia Work Permit
- Modus Operandi: Fake job offers, forged documents
- Status: FIR registered, investigation ongoing
How the Croatia Work Permit Scam Happened
According to the complaint filed at Dalanwala Police Station, the fraud began in June 2024 when the accused approached Rekha Sharma claiming to be authorized agents for Croatia work permits.
They assured her that:
- They had valid licenses
- They could arrange overseas jobs
- They had a successful track record
Trusting these claims, Rekha Sharma proceeded to process applications for 17 candidates, paying a total of ₹18 lakh (₹15 lakh online and ₹3 lakh in cash).
Fake Documents Led to Visa Rejections
The situation took a serious turn when:
- All visa applications were rejected
- Authorities identified fake documents and fraudulent job offers
Investigations revealed that the accused allegedly:
- Created forged employment contracts
- Submitted fake documentation
- Misrepresented themselves as licensed agents
This pattern matches a growing trend of Europe work permit scams targeting Indian applicants.
Partial Refund and Continued Deception
After repeated pressure, the accused returned only ₹4.5 lakh, leaving ₹13.5 lakh unpaid.
The victim stated that:
- She visited Dehradun on January 31 to recover the money
- The accused promised repayment by February 22
- A written affidavit was also provided
However:
- The deadline passed without payment
- The accused became unreachable
- Their office was found closed
Repeat Offenders? Previous Cases Surface
One of the most serious aspects of this case is that the accused are reportedly repeat offenders.
- Prior fraud cases linked to overseas placement have been registered
- An FIR was already filed in 2025 at Dalanwala Police Station
This raises serious concerns about:
- Lack of background verification
- Continued operation of fraudulent agencies
Police Action and Investigation Status
Dehradun Police have:
- Registered an FIR under fraud, criminal conspiracy, and harassment charges
- Initiated a full investigation
Station in-charge Santosh Singh Kunwar confirmed that:
- Evidence is being collected
- Financial transactions are under review
- Further legal action will follow
Expert Analysis: Rise of Europe Work Permit Scams
While Canada and Australia dominate immigration trends, Croatia and other EU countries are emerging as new scam targets.
Why Croatia?
- Increasing demand for European jobs
- Less public awareness of visa processes
- Easier to fake job offers
Key Red Flags in This Case:
- “Authorized agent” claim without verification
- Bulk processing for multiple candidates
- Large upfront payments (cash + online)
- No direct employer communication
- Fake job offer letters
- Delayed refunds and closed office
How to Avoid Work Permit Fraud
1. Verify Employer Directly
Always confirm job offers with the actual company in the destination country.
2. Check Government Portals
Use official immigration websites of countries like:
- Croatia
- Canada
- Australia
3. Avoid Bulk Processing Deals
Scammers often target groups to collect large sums quickly.
4. Demand Written Contracts
Ensure all agreements are:
- Legally valid
- Verifiable
5. Research Agent History
Check for:
- Previous complaints
- Online reviews
- FIR records
FAQs
1. What is the Dehradun Immigration Fraud Croatia work permit case?
A woman from Himachal Pradesh was allegedly cheated of ₹13.5 lakh by agents promising Croatia jobs using fake documents.
2. How many candidates were involved in Dehradun Immigration Fraud?
A total of 17 candidates were processed under the fraudulent scheme.
3. How much money was paid and recovered in Dehradun Immigration Fraud?
₹18 lakh was paid, out of which only ₹4.5 lakh was returned.
4. Are the accused repeat offenders in Dehradun Immigration Fraud?
Yes, previous fraud cases and an FIR in 2025 have been reported against them.
5. What action has the police taken in Dehradun Immigration Fraud?
Police have registered an FIR and started an investigation into the accused.
Final Take
This Dehradun Immigration Fraud case highlights a critical shift in immigration fraud patterns—scammers are now targeting lesser-known destinations like Croatia to exploit lack of awareness.
For applicants, the lesson is clear:
No matter how convincing the agent sounds, verification is non-negotiable.
Losing money is one part—but trusting the wrong people can also cost you your international career dreams.
Read About : Canada Visa Fraud In Shimla: Woman Arrested from Kharar In ₹25 Lakh Visa Scam
