Victims Accuse Travel Agents of Taking Money, Passports and Documents Under False Overseas Job Promises
More than 150 citizens in Lahore have allegedly fallen victim to a large-scale visa fraud scam, losing around Rs60 million to travel agents who reportedly promised overseas employment and travel opportunities.
The affected individuals staged a protest outside the Lahore Press Club, demanding immediate action against the alleged fraudsters and recovery of their money.
According to the protesters, the travel agents attracted people through advertisements on social media platforms, offering opportunities to work and settle abroad. Many victims said they trusted these promises and handed over their hard-earned savings in the hope of securing better futures for themselves and their families.
Victims Claim Agents Took Passports and Important Documents
The protesters alleged that the agents not only collected large sums of money but also took possession of their passports, educational certificates and other personal documents.
Many victims said they have been left in a difficult situation as their important documents remain with the agents, while their promised visas and overseas opportunities never materialised.
Some affected families claimed that they invested their entire savings after being convinced that they would soon travel abroad for employment.
The victims said they repeatedly contacted the agents after delays in the visa process but allegedly received excuses instead of solutions.
Calls for FIA Action Against Alleged Fraudsters
During the protest, the victims accused the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of failing to take effective action despite receiving multiple complaints regarding the alleged scam.
They questioned why the suspects had not been arrested or investigated despite numerous affected citizens approaching authorities.
The protesters appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister and other senior government officials to take immediate notice of the matter and ensure justice.
They demanded strict action against travel agents who allegedly deceive citizens by offering fake overseas employment opportunities and fraudulent visa services.
Victims Demand Recovery of Money and Legal Action
The affected citizens urged authorities to launch a thorough investigation, identify those responsible and recover the money allegedly taken from them.
They also called for stronger monitoring of travel agencies and recruitment agents to prevent similar scams in the future.
The protesters warned that they would continue their demonstration until their complaints were addressed and legal action was taken against the alleged perpetrators.
The case has once again highlighted concerns over fraudulent overseas employment schemes, where citizens are often targeted through attractive social media advertisements promising jobs and better opportunities abroad.
