The EditorPublic Alert: Only Trust Govt-Approved Agents for Foreign Travel
Kaithal, June 2 –
Superintendent of Police Aastha Modi has issued a crucial advisory for individuals planning to go abroad for education, tourism, or other purposes. With increasing reports of fraud by fake travel agents, SP Modi has appealed to the public to only approach government-recognized agents for visa and travel-related services.
Rising Fraud Cases Trigger Concern
According to SP Modi, a significant number of people from Haryana wish to travel abroad, but due to a lack of awareness, they often fall prey to fraudulent travel agents. These agents lure victims through online ads and social media platforms, offering attractive travel packages and false promises.
The police have observed that these agents operate fake travel websites or post misleading advertisements on social media to gain the trust of innocent people. Once contacted, they manipulate victims using various tricks and collect large sums of money on the pretext of arranging visas or job offers abroad.
Illegal Routes Risking Lives
In several reported cases, these fake agents send individuals to neighboring countries through illegal routes. From there, people are made to cross international borders via forests, sea routes, or even hidden in containers and small boats. These unlawful journeys have cost many lives – victims have died due to extreme cold, poisonous animal bites, drowning, or suffocation inside containers.
SP Modi shared that in some cases, victims who manage to reach foreign soil are stripped of their passports and other documents. The criminals then exploit them, using threats and fear to involve them in illegal activities.
Police Advisory to the Public
To combat such rising fraud, the district police have released a formal advisory. The public is urged to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of any travel agent before making payments or starting the visa process.
“Even a small step of caution can protect you from falling into the trap of these fraudsters,” said SP Aastha Modi.
Key Recommendations from the Police:
- Always consult government-recognized travel agents for any work related to foreign travel.
- Verify the agent’s license and registration before making payments.
- Avoid making decisions based solely on online advertisements or social media promotions.
- Do not hand over your passport or personal documents without full assurance of the agent’s authenticity.
- In case of doubt, consult local police or immigration officials for guidance.
Public Sentiment and Call for Awareness
This warning comes at a time when cases of visa fraud and illegal immigration are becoming increasingly common, particularly in regions with high aspirations of overseas migration. Public sentiment echoes the need for greater awareness and stricter regulations to curb these deceitful practices.
Many families have suffered financial losses and emotional trauma due to such scams. Victims are left stranded, facing not just legal consequences but also life-threatening conditions. SP Modi’s timely advisory aims to prevent more such cases and safeguard the dreams of countless individuals seeking a better future abroad.
