Police Bust Immigration Fraud Racket, Husband-Wife Duo Arrested For Cheating Youths Of Lakhs On Fake Luxembourg Visa Promises
In a major crackdown on immigration fraud racket and fake overseas job scams, the Panchkula Police Anti-Immigration Fraud Unit has arrested a husband and wife accused of cheating many people of lakhs of rupees by falsely promising to send them to Europe on work visa. Home
The accused have been identified as Anubhav Garg, a resident of Sangrur, Punjab, and his wife Akanksha. The couple allegedly posed as licensed immigration agents operating an office in Sector 17, Chandigarh, and lured young aspirants with assurances of European work visas, particularly for countries like Luxembourg.
Victim Trapped Through Online Platform
According to police officials, the complainant is originally from Himachal Pradesh and is currently residing in Panchkula. In his complaint, he stated that he came in contact with the accused through an online platform. On August 30, 2024, he was called to Chandigarh, where the couple allegedly convinced him that they could arrange a Luxembourg work visa.
Trusting their claims, the victim paid ₹1.55 lakh as advance money. However, despite repeated follow-ups, neither the visa was provided nor was the money returned, prompting him to approach the police.
Police Case Registered, Probe Handed to Anti-Immigration Fraud Unit
Based on the complaint, a case was registered at Chandimandir police station, and the investigation was assigned to the Anti-Immigration Fraud Unit, The police intensified the probe and began tracking the alleged fraud network.
Earlier, on January 22, the police arrested another accused, Bhateh Singh, a resident of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, who was linked to the racket. During his arrest, ₹50,000 in cash was recovered. After his police remand was completed, he was sent to judicial custody.
Husband-Wife Duo Arrested, Multiple Cases Emerge
As the investigation progressed, the police arrested Anubhav Garg and Akanksha on January 29. The couple was produced before a court, which granted the police two-day remand for further questioning.
Preliminary investigation has revealed that around 15 similar cheating cases are already registered against the accused in Chandigarh, all related to overseas visa fraud and immigration scams. The police believe that more victims may come forward as the investigation deepens.
Police Probe Wider Network
The investigative team said that the accused are being questioned to identify other victims, associates, and the larger network involved in this scam. The police are also verifying whether the accused held any valid immigration consultancy license or were operating illegally without a license.
Police Issue Advisory to Public
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Panchkula, Srishti Gupta, has urged the public to remain cautious while dealing with immigration agents.
“Before giving money to any agent for going abroad, people must thoroughly verify the agent’s license, registration, and office credentials. Always approach only government-authorized and registered immigration consultants,” the DCP advised.
Rising Concern Over Immigration Scams
Cases of fake Europe work visas, overseas job frauds, and illegal immigration consultancies have been on the rise across Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh. Police officials have reiterated that shortcuts to go abroad often lead to financial loss, legal trouble, and shattered dreams for young aspirants.
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