Immigration Consultancy Accused of Collecting Money for Promised UK Employment Before Allegedly Closing Operations

An immigration consultancy proprietor in Ahmedabad has been booked after allegedly defrauding a local entrepreneur of ₹10.49 lakh by promising to arrange a United Kingdom work visa and overseas employment.

According to police, the accused operated Stanmore Enterprise Pvt. Ltd. from Godrej Garden City in Jagatpur and allegedly collected money in multiple instalments before shutting down the office without providing either the promised work permit or a refund.

The case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the allegations remain under investigation.

Promise of UK Employment and Refund Assurance

According to the complaint, Ankit Sureshbhai Panchal, a 34-year-old entrepreneur operating an engineering unit in Ghatlodia, was introduced to the accused through a family acquaintance in early 2024.

During a meeting held in April 2024, the accused allegedly represented himself as an overseas employment consultant capable of obtaining a UK work permit within 10 to 15 days after submission of documents.

Initially, the consultancy reportedly quoted ₹22.50 lakh for the process. However, after discussions regarding the complainant's financial situation, the amount was allegedly reduced to ₹18 lakh, accompanied by an assurance that the money would be refunded if the visa application was unsuccessful.

Believing these representations, the complainant submitted personal documents including:

• Passport
• Educational certificates
• IELTS score
• Caregiving certification

He also reportedly selected a care worker position in London from employment options presented by the consultancy.

Payments Made Over One Year

Police said that between April 2024 and April 2025, the complainant allegedly transferred ₹10.49 lakh through:

• Digital payment gateways
• IMPS transfers
• Cheques

According to the complaint, whenever updates or official documentation were requested, including confirmation letters or letters of intent, the accused allegedly claimed that the visa application remained under process while continuing to seek additional payments.

Before making substantial payments for overseas employment opportunities, applicants are generally advised to conduct proper **Due Diligence on immigration consultants, employment offers and contractual documentation.

Office Allegedly Closed Without Notice

The complainant alleged that communication with the accused eventually stopped and that the office premises of Stanmore Enterprise Pvt. Ltd. had been closed.

After failing to obtain either the promised UK work permit or a refund, the complainant approached the Ahmedabad Police.

Police have reportedly received:

• Digital payment records
• Bank statements
• Electronic communications
• Supporting transaction documents

Investigators are examining the financial trail to determine how the collected funds were utilised.

Such cases often require an independent **Financial Investigation to analyse payment flows, verify financial records and identify whether similar complaints involve a common pattern.

Police Probe Financial Transactions

Law enforcement authorities are reportedly examining the accused's financial accounts and transaction history.

The investigation will seek to determine:

• How the funds were received
• Whether the money was transferred further
• Whether additional individuals were similarly affected
• The authenticity of the promised overseas employment process

Investigators may also review business records, banking transactions and communication history as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Proper **Bookkeeping Services and maintenance of financial records often play an important role in tracing disputed transactions during commercial fraud investigations.

Growing Concern Over Overseas Job Scams

Authorities across India have repeatedly warned job seekers against immigration and overseas employment frauds that involve:

• Guaranteed work visas
• Assured overseas jobs
• Advance processing fees
• Fake offer letters
• False immigration approvals
• Unrealistic processing timelines

Applicants are generally encouraged to independently verify immigration consultants, employers and recruitment agencies before transferring funds or submitting personal documents.

Investigation Continues

Ahmedabad Police continue to investigate the allegations.

Further action will depend upon documentary evidence, financial records, digital communications and statements recorded during the investigation.

No finding of guilt has been made at this stage, and the allegations will be tested through the legal process.