Italy NRI booked for immigration fraud

The Phagwara police have registered a case against an Italy-based Non-Resident Indian (NRI), identified as Tersem Chand, for allegedly defrauding a local villager on the pretext of facilitating his immigration to Italy. The accused, originally from village Jagatpur-Jattan in Punjab, is facing serious charges following a complaint by Arun Kumar, a resident of village Khera near Phagwara.

According to the complaint filed at the Phagwara Police Station, Arun Kumar alleged that Tersem Chand had promised to arrange his settlement in Italy in exchange for a payment of Rs 16,00,000. The amount was reportedly handed over in instalments. Kumar stated that the accused neither provided the necessary documents, nor fulfilled any commitments made regarding travel or settlement abroad.

The police have registered a case under Sections 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property) and 406 (criminal breach of trust) of the Indian Penal Code, along with applicable provisions of the Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act. These laws are intended to protect individuals from being exploited by unlicensed travel agents or fraudulent immigration consultants.

Speaking on the matter, Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Toora confirmed that the complaint was found to be credible after preliminary inquiry, leading to the registration of an FIR. “We have initiated an investigation into the allegations. The complainant has submitted relevant evidence, and efforts are underway to trace the accused and ascertain the scope of the fraud,” the official said.

He said further legal action would be taken based on the outcome of the investigation. The authorities have not ruled out possibility of other victims coming forward, as such cases involving unauthorised immigration agents have been on the rise in the region.

Meanwhile, the SSP has urged residents to verify the credentials of travel agents and immigration consultants before making any financial commitments. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the police promptly. As of now, Tersem Chand remains at large.