Tourist Visa Fraud, Couple Duped of ₹14.5 Lakh on Pretext of Canada Visa

A fresh case of immigration fraud has surfaced in Haryana, where a couple was allegedly cheated of ₹14.50 lakh on the false promise of being sent to Canada. The accused reportedly handed over forged visa documents and later threatened the victims when they demanded their money back. Acting on the complaint, police have registered an FIR and initiated an investigation into the matter.

According to the complaint filed by Gursharan Kaur, a resident of Dera Daban, Siwan, the incident dates back nearly two years. She stated that her neighbour, Vijender, approached her with the claim that he knew an agent who could arrange Canadian visas for her and her husband. Trusting him, the couple handed over their personal documents. Vijender then introduced them to Ravi Rana, a resident of Panipat, who further connected them with another individual named Umarpal.

The accused allegedly demanded ₹20 lakh for arranging the couple’s migration to Canada. As the victims were unable to pay the entire amount at once, they transferred approximately ₹14.50 lakh in installments at different times under the assurance that the visa process was underway. For months, the accused kept delaying the matter, citing procedural reasons, while repeatedly assuring the couple that they would soon be sent abroad.

The complainant alleged that Vijender, Ravi Rana and Umarpal acted in collusion to defraud them and misappropriate their hard-earned money. The victims were reportedly told that their flight to Canada was scheduled for June 1, 2024. Believing the claims, the couple made necessary preparations and travelled to Delhi to board the flight. However, they were shocked to discover that the visa documents provided by the agents were fake and duplicated.

When the couple confronted the accused and demanded a refund, Umarpal allegedly refused to return the money and began issuing life threats. Following this, the victims approached the Siwan police station, where a case was registered against all three accused.

Police officials confirmed that an FIR has been lodged and that the roles of all accused persons are being examined. Authorities have once again urged the public to remain cautious while dealing with immigration agents and to verify their credentials and claims through official channels to avoid falling prey to such scams.