A shocking Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud has come to light where a gang allegedly cheated several young men of more than ₹70 lakh by promising to send them abroad through fake marriages and study visas.
Police in Ludhiana district have arrested two accused, including a woman, who were allegedly running the fraud network. Authorities believe that more victims may come forward as the investigation continues.
The case highlights the growing danger of immigration scams, visa fraud, and fake marriage schemes targeting young Indians who dream of studying or settling abroad.
How the Fake Marriage Immigration Scam Worked
According to police officials investigating the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud, the accused followed a carefully planned method to trap victims.
The gang would first identify young men who wished to go abroad for higher education or work. These victims were approached with attractive offers promising quick visas and smooth migration to countries such as the United Kingdom or Australia.
Once the victims showed interest, the accused arranged a fake marriage with a woman who was part of the fraud network.
To gain the trust of the victims and their families, the gang even prepared fake educational certificates and documents for the woman, making the arrangement appear legitimate.
This staged marriage was then used as a supposed pathway to help the victims travel abroad.
Students Sent Abroad but University Fees Never Paid
In several cases linked to the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud, the victims were actually sent abroad after paying large sums of money.
However, the fraud became clear once they reached their destination.
Police investigations revealed that the accused never paid the university tuition fees despite collecting the money from the victims.
As a result, the students’ visas were cancelled after a short period due to non-payment of fees.
By the time the victims discovered the fraud, the accused had already collected large amounts of money and moved on to target new victims.
Police Officer’s Son Among the Victims
The fraud network was finally exposed when the son of a police officer became one of the victims of the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud.
According to reports, the young man wanted to go to Australia for higher studies. When his visa application was unsuccessful, the accused promised to arrange a pathway to the United Kingdom instead.
They arranged a fake marriage with a woman and assured the family that all immigration formalities had been completed.
However, after the young man reached abroad, he discovered that his university fees had not been deposited, leading to the cancellation of his visa.
This incident prompted the family to report the matter to the police, triggering a detailed investigation.
Victims Lost More Than ₹70 Lakh
During the investigation, police discovered that several individuals had fallen victim to the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud.
Some of the major financial losses reported include:
- ASI Manohar Lal: ₹33 lakh
- Manvinder Singh: ₹6.50 lakh
- Charanjeet Singh (Village Ghunewal): ₹35 lakh
Charanjeet Singh told police that the accused arranged a fake marriage in exchange for money, promising to send him abroad. However, even after two years, neither was he sent abroad nor was his money returned.
Similarly, Manvinder Singh stated that he was promised a trip to the UK but was never sent overseas, and the accused refused to refund his ₹6.50 lakh payment.
Two Accused Arrested, Investigation Continues
Police from Sudhar Police Station have arrested two members of the fraud network:
- Lakhbir Singh
- Reena Rani
Authorities believe the gang may have cheated many more victims.
Three separate criminal cases have been registered against the accused, and police are currently searching for other members linked to the fraud network.
Investigators say the probe into the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud is ongoing and may reveal additional victims in the coming weeks.
Rising Immigration Fraud Cases in Punjab
Experts say cases like the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud are becoming increasingly common in states like Punjab and Haryana.
Many young people aspire to move abroad for better career opportunities, which fraudsters exploit by offering illegal immigration routes or fake study visa arrangements.
Authorities advise people to take the following precautions:
- Always verify immigration agents and consultants
- Check university admission directly with official institutions
- Avoid illegal shortcuts to immigration
- Confirm visa details through official embassy channels
FAQ
What is the Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud case?
The Punjab fake marriage immigration fraud involves a gang that cheated several young men by arranging fake marriages and promising overseas study visas, collecting over ₹70 lakh from victims.
Who has been arrested in the case?
Police have arrested Lakhbir Singh and Reena Rani, while the search for other gang members is ongoing.
How did the scam work?
The accused arranged fake marriages and promised to send victims abroad for studies but failed to pay university fees, leading to visa cancellations.
How much money was involved in the fraud?
Police investigations revealed that victims collectively lost more than ₹70 lakh.
What action has the police taken?
The Sudhar police have registered three separate criminal cases and are continuing their investigation into the fraud network.
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