Una : Man Defrauded of ₹5.90 Lakhs in Fake Canada Visa Scam
Una Police Launches Investigation After Victim Exposes Fraudulent Travel Agent
Una, 09 December: A man from Beri, under Police Station Bangana, has fallen victim to an elaborate scam in which he was defrauded of ₹5.90 lakhs under the pretense of securing a Canada visa. The victim, Satveer Singh, a resident of Dasuha in Punjab, has filed a complaint with the Bangana police, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the matter.
The Deceptive Scheme Unfolds
According to the complaint, Satveer Singh had shared his desire to work abroad with a friend, who introduced him to Rajiv Sharma, a resident of Beri. Sharma allegedly claimed to be a licensed travel agent, specializing in securing visas for both European and Canadian companies. He informed Satveer that obtaining a Canada visa would cost ₹15 lakh, with half of the payment required upfront and the remaining amount to be settled once the visa was issued.
Between June 2019 and December 2019, Satveer made multiple payments to Sharma, totaling ₹5.90 lakh. He initially paid ₹1.5 lakh in Beri and another ₹1.5 lakh at the Una bus stand. Subsequently, Sharma deposited ₹1.45 lakh into his friend’s account, followed by another ₹1.45 lakh, which was transferred to the Punjab National Bank (PNB) branch in Bangana, with assurances that the visa would be processed within two months.
Delays and False Promises Lead to Suspicion
Despite repeated assurances from Rajiv Sharma, Satveer never received his Canada visa. By December 2019, Sharma began citing various excuses for the delay, including the nationwide lockdown. However, after 2021, when Sharma continued to promise a visa that never materialized, Satveer grew suspicious and began inquiring with locals in Beri. It was during these inquiries that he discovered Rajiv Sharma was not a registered travel agent as he had claimed.
When Satveer demanded his money back, Sharma began avoiding him, eventually disconnecting his phone. Satveer has now come forward, alleging that Sharma swindled him of ₹5.90 lakh under false pretenses.
Police Investigation Underway
Upon receiving Satveer’s complaint, Superintendent of Police Rakesh Singh confirmed that a case has been registered against Rajiv Sharma. The police have initiated a full investigation into the fraud, and authorities are working to trace Sharma’s whereabouts.
This case highlights the growing issue of visa frauds and serves as a cautionary tale for individuals looking to secure employment abroad. Authorities are urging the public to conduct thorough background checks before dealing with travel agents or making any financial transactions related to visa processing.
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