CID cracks multi-state job visa fraud; over 100 victims duped

The Telangana Crime Investigation Department (CID) arrested Saroj Shiswant Thorat alias Saroj Bharath Kumar, a director of Secunderabad-based ‘Eagle Expert Immigration Consultancy,’ in connection with a job visa fraud that duped over 100 individuals across multiple states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Saroj, a 40-year-old resident of West Marredpally, Secunderabad was taken into custody on Tuesday and remanded to judicial custody the same day. Saroj’s husband, Vuyyuru Bharath Kumar, who is also a director in the company is also under investigation.

According to Additional Director General of CID, Charu Sinha, “The racket came to light following a complaint from Ch. Kamalakar of Karimnagar, who along with his friend K. Sunil, alleged they had been duped of ₹8 lakh by a firm named ‘Abroad Study Plan Overseas Educational Consultancy’ in KPHB. The duo had been promised guaranteed employment in Malta but were left jobless abroad after being handed forged documents.”

Similar cases have also been registered at the Khanapur police station in Nirmal and KPHB in Cyberabad. All the case have been consolidated and transferred to the CID’s Economic Offences Wing in Hyderabad.

“Victims were promised jobs overseas, particularly in Malta, and were charged up to ₹5 lakh each. Once the victims reached Malta, they found that no employment was arranged and were forced to return, financially drained and defrauded,” added the officer.

Saroj Thorat and her husband allegedly collaborated with directors of the ‘Abroad Study Consultancy’ and other accused in orchestrating the fraud. Her arrest follows five earlier arrests in the same investigation. The CID said that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects.

Authorities have urged people to steer clear of overseas job consultancies not registered with the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE). Those who have fallen victim to similar scams are encouraged to contact SP M. Gangadhar, CID, Hyderabad.

Published - June 18, 2025 11:40 pm IST