Two booked in Mangaluru for Rs 19.20 lakh overseas visa fraud

Mangaluru: In a major case of financial fraud, Kankanady Town Police have registered a case against two individuals accused of duping a Kannur resident of ₹19.20 lakh under the pretext of providing an overseas employment visa. The complaint was lodged by Muhammad Sinan of Dayambu, Kannur, who claims he was lured by false assurances and later threatened when he demanded accountability.

The fraudulent promise

According to the complaint, the alleged fraud began in January 2025 when Sinan communicated with Muhammad Azman of Beltangady, who was reportedly residing abroad at the time. Sinan had expressed interest in securing overseas employment, following which Azman allegedly offered to provide a visa for ₹4.50 lakh.

On May 9, Azman, accompanied by another accused identified as Tauseef, reportedly visited Dayambu in Kannur and met Sinan and his brother, Muhammad Azmeen. The complainant stated that during this meeting, Azman collected various sums from multiple individuals on the pretext of processing visas.

Funds collected from multiple victims

The complaint details the amounts collected by the accused:

• ₹2 lakh in cash directly from Muhammad Sinan

The total amount allegedly amassed by the accused stands at ₹19.20 lakh.

Threats and intimidation

Despite receiving the substantial amount, the complainant claims that Azman failed to deliver the promised visa. When Sinan contacted him to follow up, Azman allegedly threatened to file a criminal case against him for trespassing if he visited their residence. Moreover, Azman reportedly threatened to accuse Sinan of assaulting the women in his household.

Police investigation underway

Kankanady Town Police have taken cognisance of the matter and registered a case of cheating and criminal intimidation. Investigators are verifying the financial transactions mentioned in the complaint and are expected to summon the accused for questioning.

Authorities have also indicated that efforts are underway to determine whether more individuals have fallen victim to similar schemes by the accused and whether the case involves a wider network of fraudulent visa operators.

Rise in job visa frauds

This incident underscores a growing concern over fraudulent job visa schemes, particularly targeting individuals seeking employment abroad. Police have urged job-seekers to verify the credentials of recruiters and agencies through official channels and avoid making large payments without proper documentation.

As the investigation continues, Kankanady Town Police aim to gather evidence and take legal action to recover the defrauded amount while ensuring justice for the victims.