The Telangana Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has arrested the director of a job consultancy in Marredpally for allegedly defrauding around 100 unemployed job seekers of approximately ₹5 crore. The accused purportedly offered placements in Malta-based firms but pocketed large sums of money instead.
Promises of Overseas Jobs Turn into ₹5 Crore Scam
Victims came forward from across three districts, Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and surrounding areas, reporting that they had paid between ₹2 lakh and ₹5 lakh each, with the promise of guaranteed employment in Malta. After collecting advances, the accused offered fake offer letters, calling the transactions “processing fees” to secure the positions. As recruitment did not materialise, many lodged complaints with the CID, prompting the latest arrest of the director, marking the sixth arrest to date in this sprawling investigation.
Officials believe the crime was orchestrated through shell operations, including fabricated documentation and collusion with third-party agents. The CID report alleges that the consultancy collected funds via bank transfers to multiple accounts before disappearing. Investigators are exploring links with other illegal recruitment rings operating in southern India. Authorities have launched multiple FIRs and are examining phone records, bank transaction logs, and communication traces as part of ongoing scrutiny.
Repercussions and Regulatory Challenges
This scandal has reignited debate over the regulation of private job consultancies, particularly those dealing with foreign placements. Employment watchdogs have long warned against illicit practices: from fake seats in overseas companies to forged admission letters. Experts argue there’s an urgent need for licensing, grievance redressal mechanisms, and better oversight of financial flows in such operations.