A Bengaluru-based private company, Owlspriority India Pvt Ltd, has come under police investigation for allegedly defrauding job aspirants by promising Canadian visas and overseas employment. The Puttenahalli police registered the first FIR on September 22 following a complaint by 25-year-old Chandan, who claimed he was cheated after paying lakhs of rupees to the firm for visa and job facilitation services.
How the scam unfolded
Chandan told police that he first came across the firm in January 2023 via a social media advertisement, which claimed that Owlspriority was a Canadian immigration company with offices in Vancouver and Bengaluru. Interested, he registered on their website. Shortly after, an executive named Vinay Kotari contacted him and demanded Rs 1,500 for an eligibility test, which Chandan paid.
According to the FIR, Chandan met Kotari at the Bengaluru office in JP Nagar on January 28, 2023. He was assured that the firm would provide all assistance to secure a permanent visa from the Canadian government and a job abroad. The total service charge was fixed at Rs 1 lakh. Chandan paid Rs 50,000 through UPI immediately and the balance a month later. He also submitted his World Education Services (WES) and IELTS certificates and signed a Client Retainer Agreement, receiving a copy via email.
Initially, Chandan received updates for a few months. However, communication ceased abruptly, and the promises made in the agreement were not fulfilled. He alleged that the company refused to return his money and even created two fake profiles under his name for the “Immigrate through Express Entry” scheme.
Multiple victims emerge
Following Chandan’s complaint, police began probing the company and identified multiple other victims who were allegedly cheated of lakhs of rupees. Statements from these individuals, some of whom were friends of the complainant, are being recorded. Online reviews also revealed that several people faced similar fraudulent practices.
FIR and police investigation
The Puttenahalli police have filed a criminal case against Ninan Lawrence, the director of Owlspriority India Pvt Ltd, and employees Vijaya Durga, Thota Akhil, Tabassum Naz, and Vinay Kotari. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining the company’s operations, verifying claims, and collecting victim statements.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), Lokesh B Jagalasar, said, “Investigation is currently underway. The statements of other victims will be taken and included in the inquiry.”
Warning to job seekers
Police officials have warned aspirants to exercise caution when dealing with companies promising overseas jobs or visas. They advised verifying the authenticity of firms through official channels and refraining from paying advance fees without proper documentation. Experts also recommend checking official government immigration portals and consulting registered immigration agents to avoid such scams.
Conclusion
The Owlspriority India case highlights the increasing prevalence of fraudulent agencies targeting job seekers aspiring to work abroad. While police continue their probe, victims and the general public are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities immediately. Authorities have assured strict legal action against the perpetrators to prevent further exploitation.