Panchkula Police Uncover Major New Zealand Visa Scam, Three Arrested

The Panchkula Police have dismantled a significant immigration fraud scheme involving false promises of New Zealand work visas. Three individuals have been arrested, including the alleged mastermind, and police have recovered ₹5 lakh in cash. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to target gangs that exploit individuals seeking overseas employment.

The investigation began when a local resident reported to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Srishti Gupta that he had been defrauded. Between May and June 2024, he paid ₹15 lakh to the accused with the expectation that his son would be sent to New Zealand on a work visa. After months of being misled, the complainant grew concerned when his son was still in the country, prompting the accused to evade repayment.

DCP Srishti Gupta confirmed that a case was registered on May 27, 2025, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Sections 420 and 406, as well as Section 24 of the Immigration Act. The investigation was assigned to the Anti-Immigration Fraud Unit, which swiftly began its work.

The first arrest took place on September 10, 2025, when police apprehended Neeraj, a resident of Ambala district. Following his arrest, he was presented in court and placed on a four-day police remand. During interrogation, police discovered that funds from the fraudulent scheme had been transferred to another suspect, believed to be the primary conspirator.

Initial raids were conducted at multiple locations; however, the main accused managed to evade capture. After continued efforts, a significant breakthrough occurred on December 9, when police arrested Shailendra Kumar, also known as Shail, a resident of Kanpur district in Uttar Pradesh. He was subsequently brought before the court on December 10 and remanded to five days in police custody. His bail application was later dismissed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Further investigations revealed that Shailendra Kumar had been operating an unlicensed firm called “The Man Power” in Noida for five years. This firm was allegedly involved in deceiving individuals by guaranteeing overseas job placements. The police also traced part of the defrauded money to Saddam Hussain Ansari’s account. Acting on this information, police executed raids in West Bengal, leading to Ansari’s arrest on December 12. He was produced in court on December 14 and remanded to seven days in police custody, during which ₹5 lakh in cash was confiscated.

DCP Srishti Gupta highlighted the operation’s collaborative efforts, overseen by Inspector Yogvinder Singh. Investigating officers including Jagpal Singh, ASI Deepak Kumar, and woman constable Poonam, along with the Cyber Cell team, played vital roles in the investigation.

The police have indicated that the investigation is ongoing, with more suspects likely to be identified and arrested in the coming days. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and avoid engaging with unauthorized agents or companies that promise overseas opportunities. They encourage individuals to report any suspicious activities promptly.

ADGP Sibash Kabiraj, Police Commissioner of Panchkula and Chairman of Illegal Migration Matters in Haryana, emphasized the police’s commitment to safeguarding the community. He stated, “The Panchkula Police have a clear policy against networks cheating youngsters in the name of overseas opportunities. Such offenders will not escape under any circumstances. Protecting the hard-earned money and future of our youth is our priority. With this commitment, we will continue to take even stricter action against such gangs.”