CBI Cracks Down on Visa Scam: 8 Charged in French Embassy Fraud
CBI Takes Action Against Visa Fraud
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has charged eight people. This includes a local law officer at the French Embassy in New Delhi and his family. They are accused of running a visa fraud scheme. This scheme targeted people applying for Schengen visas.
What the Chargesheet Reveals
- The chargesheet was filed on June 11.
- It names the embassy official, his father, brother, and wife.
- Two visa agents and two middlemen are also named.
- The fraud happened from January 2021 to May 2022.
How the Scam Worked
The accused used their position in the visa section of the French Embassy. They approved visa applications for large bribes. These bribes mainly came from applicants in Punjab. Visa agents collected sums ranging from Rs 13 lakh to Rs 45 lakh per applicant. They promised quick visa approvals in return.
The CBI says that once the visas were issued, the supporting documents were destroyed. This was done to remove any evidence. Searches in Punjab and Delhi found large amounts of unaccounted cash. They also found documents linked to properties worth crores, both in India and abroad.
The Role of Visa Agents and Middlemen
The visa agents were key players. They moved the illegal funds through various bank accounts. The funds eventually reached the embassy official and his family through two middlemen.
International Cooperation and Achievements
The CBI’s International Operations Division worked with Interpol. They secured India’s first-ever Silver Notice from Interpol. This notice helps trace and identify assets bought overseas with illegal money.
“This is a big step for India. It helps us follow the money trail beyond our borders,” the agency said.
CBI’s Promise
The CBI is committed to fighting transnational crime. They aim to help victims in India and abroad who fall prey to such criminal networks.
