Work Visa Fraud, Amritsar Travel Agent Booked for Alleged ₹30 Lakh Overseas Job Scam

The Ranjit Avenue police in Amritsar have registered a case against a woman travel agent and her associate for allegedly cheating a family of around ₹30 lakh on the pretext of arranging overseas employment. The accused are also alleged to have issued life threats to the complainant after failing to return the money.

According to the police, the complainant, Vassan Singh, a resident of Bhaini Rajputan village, stated that he came into contact a few years ago with Stuti Sharma, a resident of Berri Gate area, who introduced herself as a travel agent. Sharma allegedly assured him that she could secure jobs in the United Kingdom for his son, Gursimran Singh, and daughter-in-law, Veer Kaur.

As per the complaint, Sharma initially demanded ₹21 lakh for the process, which was later reduced to ₹20.09 lakh. Trusting her assurances, the complainant transferred the amount in instalments. However, after receiving the money, the accused reportedly stopped responding to phone calls and failed to provide any proof of visa processing or job placement.

When Vassan Singh repeatedly demanded the return of the money, the accused allegedly threatened him with dire consequences, including threats to kill him, further aggravating the matter.

Inspector Robin Hans said that based on the complaint and preliminary inquiry, a case has been registered under relevant sections for cheating and criminal intimidation. “The role of a second accused, who allegedly assisted in the fraud, is also under investigation,” he added.

Police officials said efforts are underway to trace the accused and examine the financial trail. Further action will be taken after a detailed investigation.

Authorities have appealed to the public to verify the credentials of travel agents and avoid falling for promises of guaranteed foreign jobs, warning that such assurances are often a sign of fraud.