With aspirations soaring among the youth to settle abroad, immigration frauds continue to plague Karnal district. Official data reveals that from January 1 to July 8, 2025, a total of 144 immigration fraud cases have been registered, with 77 arrests made so far.

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Investigations indicate that most victims were lured with fake job offers and promises of a better future overseas. Several were sent through dangerous and illegal "donkey routes" — a term used for perilous, multi-country journeys primarily into the US and Canada. These treacherous paths often expose migrants to extreme conditions, exploitation and arrest.

Following the assumption of office by Donald Trump as US President, around 15 youths from Karnal were deported in February, most of whom had used these illegal channels to enter the US, sources said.

According to police data, arrests have been made in 142 of the 144 cases filed this year. Over the years, the trend has seen fluctuating numbers but remains a persistent issue in the district. In 2020, 234 FIRs were filed, 242 arrests made and 215 cases were solved. In 2021, 63 FIRs were registered, 43 arrests made and 59 cases were solved. In 2022, 101 FIRs were filed, 80 arrests made and 90 cases were solved while in 2023, 93 FIRs were recorded, 99 arrests made and 86 cases were solved. Similarly, in 2024, 142 FIRs were registered, 126 arrests made and 129 cases were solved.

While local agents have been arrested in most cases, key masterminds operating from abroad remain beyond the reach of police. These international racketeers collect hefty sums from victims through local contacts, making it difficult for police to track and prosecute them.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Ganga Ram Punia said, “We are making efforts to break the entire network of immigration fraud. Police take all complaints seriously and FIRs are registered and agents are also arrested.”

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and cautious. “I appeal to youth to go abroad through registered immigration agents,” he added.