ED raid in Chandigarh and Ludhiana: Immigration firms under scanner for visa fraud
PTC Web Desk: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at major immigration firms in Ludhiana and Chandigarh, trageting Red Leaf Immigration Pvt Ltd, Overseas Partner Education Consultants, Infoviz Software Solutions, and related entities. The ED teams carried out searches at five commercial and residential properties as part of an ongoing investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
During the operation, officials seized several incriminating documents, digital devices, and Rs 19 lakh in cash.
The ED’s action was based on FIRs registered by the Punjab and Delhi Police. The complaint originated from the Foreign Criminal Investigation Office at the US Embassy in New Delhi, alleging fraudulent activities by visa consultants, including Red Leaf Immigration Pvt Ltd and Overseas Partner Education Consultants.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused individuals and firms were involved in fabricating educational certificates and experience letters for ineligible visa applicants seeking to study or work in the United States. They allegedly transferred funds into applicants' accounts to falsely demonstrate financial eligibility for visa applications. The probe also suggests manipulation of various records to assist visa seekers in misrepresenting their qualifications.
According to the ED, the accused individuals amassed significant financial gains through fraudulent activities, which were subsequently invested in real estate and deposited into multiple bank accounts.
- PTC NEWS
