Bengaluru, 9 March

At least five First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against the management of an immigration consultancy firm in the City for allegedly duping job aspirants out of lakhs of rupees under the pretext of securing them placements in foreign countries.

The accused—identified as Sharath, Rodriques Naveen, Aruna, and Gayathri—are managers of an immigration consultancy operating on Infantry Road. They allegedly promised high-paying jobs in countries like Poland but failed to deliver despite collecting large sums from applicants over the past three to four years.

According to sources, more than 20 people have reportedly fallen victim to the alleged scam. The consultancy advertised job openings for drivers, domestic help, assistants, store managers, and salespersons on social media, attracting several applicants. Victims claim they were assured job placements within six months after making payments ranging from Rs 1.7 lakh to Rs 2.9 lakh. However, none received either the promised jobs or refunds.

One of the victims, Bharath DS, a cab driver from JP Nagar, said he paid Rs 2.9 lakh in 2022 after being promised a driving job abroad. "They gave me a copy of the work permit and assured me they would arrange my visa within six months, but nothing happened," he alleged.

Another victim, Shadakshari from Begur, claimed that when he demanded a refund, the consultancy staff allegedly threatened him. Similar allegations were made by Maqsood, a boxing trainer from Shivajinagar, and John Paul Prashant from Vasanth Nagar, who claimed to have lost Rs 2.3 lakh and Rs 1.7 lakh, respectively.

Meanwhile, the consultancy staff have denied any wrongdoing, asserting that they never guaranteed job placements.