Police on Thursday facilitated the return of ₹70.77 lakh to 11 victims in a travel fraud case after recovering more than ₹1.07 crore from the accused travel agents.
The refund process was carried out in the presence of the sub-divisional magistrate (East), Ludhiana, in compliance with court orders. Assistant commissioner of police (Civil Lines) Sarabjit Singh supervised the disbursement of the recovered amount. According to police, a total of ₹1,07,86,594 was recovered during the investigation. As per court directions, the amount is to be distributed among 17 victims in proportion to their claims.
Commissioner of police Swapana Sharma said 11 victims who appeared before the authorities on Thursday were collectively refunded ₹70,77,910. The remaining six victims will receive their share after completion of the required legal formalities. The case was registered at Model Town police station on September 4, 2024, against siblings Amit Malhotra and Veena Malhotra under charges of cheating and violations of the Immigration Act. The duo was arrested on September 6, 2024, for allegedly duping people on the pretext of sending them abroad.
Police said more than 20 FIRs were registered against the siblings in connection with similar allegations. The complainants had alleged that they were induced to pay large sums of money on the promise of overseas opportunities.
{{/usCountry}}Police said more than 20 FIRs were registered against the siblings in connection with similar allegations. The complainants had alleged that they were induced to pay large sums of money on the promise of overseas opportunities.
{{/usCountry}}Sharma said the police remain committed to taking action against immigration fraud and ensuring that victims receive relief through legal channels. She added that efforts are being made to complete the refund process for the remaining victims at the earliest.