A young man from Panipat was allegedly cheated of ₹35 lakh after travel agents promised to send him to the United States on a study visa but instead routed him through several countries using the illegal “donkey route”. The case was registered at the Sector 29 police station following an inquiry by the office of the Superintendent of Police.
Study Visa and Employment Allegedly Promised
According to the complaint, a resident of Vikas Nagar said his nephew wanted to travel to the United States for higher studies. During this period, the young man came into contact with a travel agent who called him to an office in Galaxy Tower on GT Road and introduced him to several associates.
The accused allegedly claimed that they had a strong network for sending people abroad. They assured the family that the youth would be sent directly to the United States on a study visa and would also be helped in finding employment there.
A deal was subsequently finalised for ₹35 lakh. The family allegedly paid the amount believing that the travel arrangements and immigration process would be completed through lawful channels.
Youth Taken Through Five Countries
The complaint alleges that the promised study visa was never arranged. Instead, the young man was transported towards the United States through the donkey route.
He was allegedly taken through Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia and Mexico before reaching the United States. The family claimed that this route was entirely different from the legal travel process promised by the agents.
The journey allegedly exposed the youth to serious immigration risks and left the family unaware of the actual arrangements made on his behalf.
Detained in US, Family Spends More for Return
After reaching the United States, the young man was reportedly placed in a detention camp. The screenshots do not specify how long he remained in custody or the circumstances under which he was released.
His family later spent several lakh rupees to bring him back to India. Following the complaint and an inquiry by the Superintendent of Police’s office, Sector 29 police registered a case against the accused under provisions relating to illegal transportation of persons, human trafficking and fraud.
Police are expected to examine the payments, travel arrangements and role of the agents and their associates as part of the investigation.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
