Amid a rise in overseas job fraud cases, a major immigration scam has been uncovered in Haryana’s Panchkula, where a family was allegedly duped of ₹35 lakh on the promise of sending their son abroad on a work visa. Three accused have been arrested in the case, while efforts are underway to trace other members of the network. Investigators revealed that instead of a legal visa route, the victim was sent abroad through an illegal “dunki route,” detained there, and later deported back to India.
According to the complaint, Krishan Lal, a resident of Garhi Kotaha village, was approached by the accused with assurances that his son would be sent to the United States on a valid work visa. To gain trust, the accused relied on personal contacts and made convincing claims about a safe and legal process. They portrayed themselves as reliable agents capable of ensuring quick approvals and smooth travel arrangements.
The investigation revealed that the accused insisted on receiving the entire payment in cash to avoid a banking trail. The victim was allegedly pressured with claims that any delay in payment could result in losing the opportunity. Driven by hopes of securing a better future for his son, Krishan Lal sold his land and paid approximately ₹35 lakh to the accused in multiple installments.
The case took a serious turn in December 2023 when the accused claimed that the son had received a work visa and was being sent to the United States from Delhi airport. However, it later emerged that the victim had not been sent through legal channels but was instead routed illegally via the “dunki route.” Upon arrival abroad, he was detained by authorities and eventually deported back to India.
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Three Arrested, Larger Network Under Probe
During the probe, the role of a third accused surfaced, leading to further arrests. Initial interrogation has yielded crucial leads, indicating that the racket may be part of a larger organized network operating for a considerable period. Authorities suspect that the gang targeted multiple families with similar promises of overseas employment.
Mobile phones and other digital evidence have been recovered from the accused, and forensic analysis is currently underway. Investigators expect these devices to reveal more victims and additional links within the network. So far, around ₹14 lakh has been recovered, while efforts continue to trace the remaining amount.
Sources indicate that the gang primarily targeted families aspiring to send their children abroad for better opportunities. Victims were lured with promises of guaranteed visas and job placements, only to be later exploited financially. In several instances, individuals were sent through illegal routes, exposing them to legal risks and detention in foreign countries.
Expert Warning
Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh warned about the growing trend of such frauds. “In such cases, criminals use social engineering tactics. They first build trust, then create a sense of urgency by promising a legal process, forcing victims into quick decisions. Cash transactions and lack of documentation make these cases difficult to trace,” he said.
Experts note a sharp increase in immigration frauds, particularly involving illegal routes like the “dunki route,” which are used to mislead unsuspecting individuals. Victims often lose their life savings and, in many cases, face legal complications abroad.
The arrested accused have been produced in court and remanded to judicial custody. Investigating agencies are continuing efforts to dismantle the entire network, and further arrests are likely in the coming days as more details emerge from the ongoing probe.
