Chhattisgarh Police are investigating an international travel scam involving 17 individuals who traveled to several Asian countries but failed to return. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently sent a letter to the Chhattisgarh Police regarding the case, raising concerns about a larger operation potentially involving fraudulent travel agencies and organized illegal migration networks.
Details of the Scam:
The individuals, who hailed from various districts of Chhattisgarh, were allegedly promised legitimate work opportunities abroad through a local travel agency. However, after their travel to countries in Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, they reportedly lost contact with their families and were unable to return to India as planned. Some of the victims’ families began raising alarms after being unable to reach their loved ones.
The victims had paid large sums of money to a local agency, which assured them of legal work permits and travel arrangements. However, investigations by the Chhattisgarh Police revealed that the travel agency may have been part of an illegal racket that facilitated the fraudulent overseas travel of individuals under the pretense of providing jobs or educational opportunities.
Investigation Underway:
Following the receipt of the MEA’s letter, the Chhattisgarh Police launched a comprehensive investigation to uncover the full extent of the scam. Police officials have already questioned the travel agents involved in the case, and efforts are underway to track down the missing individuals. Preliminary investigations suggest that the travel agency was operating without the necessary permits and may have exploited the victims for financial gain.
The police are also looking into possible links between the local agency and international human trafficking syndicates that could have been involved in sending people abroad for illegal purposes. Chhattisgarh Police have urged the public to report any suspicious travel agencies offering deals that seem too good to be true, warning against falling victim to similar scams.
Government and Police Action:
The Chhattisgarh Home Department has promised full cooperation with the Ministry of External Affairs to investigate this international travel scam. Authorities have appealed to those affected to come forward and provide any relevant information that could help locate the missing individuals.
“We are committed to investigating this matter thoroughly, and we will take appropriate legal action against those found responsible,” said a senior Chhattisgarh Police official.
The government is also considering measures to regulate and monitor travel agencies more closely, ensuring that such scams do not occur in the future. Public awareness campaigns are expected to be launched to educate people about the risks of fraudulent overseas employment offers and the importance of verifying the legitimacy of travel agencies.
Impact on Families:
The case has left the families of the missing individuals devastated. Many have traveled to Raipur to speak with local authorities and seek information about their loved ones. The uncertainty surrounding the missing persons has created emotional turmoil for the families, who are desperate for answers.