A major fraud case involving false promises of overseas employment in Jammu and Kashmir has reached a crucial stage, with a chargesheet now filed against the accused after a prolonged investigation. The development has exposed how well-planned schemes are being used to exploit job seekers, particularly those aspiring to work abroad. The case once again highlights the growing threat of employment-related scams targeting vulnerable individuals.
The accused has been identified as Farhat Abbas Malik, a resident of Tendala area in Doda district. Following the completion of the investigation, a chargesheet has been submitted before the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court. The accused has been booked under Sections 420 (cheating) and 201 (destruction of evidence) of the Indian Penal Code.
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How the ‘Fly High’ Scam Unfolded
The case dates back to the COVID-19 pandemic period, when the complainant approached authorities alleging that he had been duped on the pretext of securing a high-paying job abroad. According to the complaint, the victim came into contact with an entity named “Fly High Business Consultant,” which was allegedly being operated by the accused.
During the course of the investigation, it emerged that the accused presented himself as a credible consultant and assured the victim of arranging an attractive overseas job. Gaining the victim’s trust, he collected a substantial amount of money and also took possession of original documents, including the passport. The victim was assured that the process was underway and that he would soon be sent abroad.
However, as time passed, neither did the promised job materialise nor did the process show any progress. When the victim attempted to follow up, he was repeatedly given evasive responses. Eventually, it became clear that the entire arrangement was a fraud orchestrated with the intent to deceive.
Investigation Reveals Deeper Fraud
Investigators found that the accused had deliberately misled the victim through false promises to gain financial benefits. Not only did he fail to arrange the promised job, but he also did not return the money taken from the victim.
During questioning, the accused admitted that he had accepted money on the promise of arranging overseas employment but failed to fulfil the commitment. It also came to light that the victim’s original passport had gone missing, which added a serious dimension to the case. Consequently, Section 201 of the IPC, relating to destruction or disappearance of evidence, was invoked.
The accused was arrested during the investigation, and his bail application was rejected. He is currently lodged in Central Jail Srinagar. With the filing of the chargesheet, the case will now proceed to trial, where the court will examine the evidence and determine the course of legal action against him.
Rising Job Scams and Precautions
Experts point out that such job-related scams are on the rise across the country, driven by unemployment and the increasing aspiration to seek better opportunities abroad. Fraudsters often pose as authorised consultants, build trust, and then extract large sums of money from unsuspecting victims.
One of the major challenges in such cases is delayed reporting by victims, which can weaken evidence and slow down the investigation process. Authorities stress the importance of timely complaints and due diligence before engaging with any agent or consultancy.
This case serves as a strong warning against blindly trusting claims of overseas employment. Individuals are advised to thoroughly verify the credentials and legitimacy of any agency before making payments or handing over original documents. In an era where such scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, awareness and caution remain the most effective safeguards.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
