Was a Woman Travel Operator Duped of Rs 1.95 Crore in Gujarat?
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Synopsis
In Vadodara, Gujarat, a woman travel operator fell victim to a scam, losing over Rs 1.95 crore while trying to arrange travel packages to Dubai and Vietnam. This case sheds light on the growing issue of travel-related fraud, highlighting the ongoing battle against cybercrime in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Travel fraud is on the rise in Gujarat.
- Fraudsters often operate through emails and social media.
- Victims should verify the authenticity of travel packages.
- Authorities are investigating to curb such scams.
- Stay informed and cautious when dealing with online transactions.
Vadodara, Sep 14 (NationPress) A woman travel operator was defrauded of more than Rs 1.95 crore in Vadodara, Gujarat, under the guise of organizing travel packages to Dubai and Vietnam, as reported by Cyber Crime Police officials.
The victim, Kavita Rachchh, a resident of the Kalali locality and involved in the travel industry, claimed that the scammers initially gained her confidence by fulfilling previous bookings and paying her commissions.
As detailed in her complaint, Rachchh received an email on March 5 from someone claiming to represent STH Journey Solution Pvt. Ltd under the alias Innatosh Holiday. Initially, the arrangements for flights and hotels proceeded without issues, with timely commission payments. However, on May 5, the suspects presented a Dubai package priced at Rs 85,500 for a group of 30, which expanded to 64 travelers.
Additionally, a Diwali package to Vietnam costing Rs 91,500 was arranged for a group from Rajkot. Unfortunately, the tickets issued were found to be fraudulent. The Dubai package contained fake flight tickets, while the Vietnam package lacked the promised amenities and return tickets.
Rachchh reported that she transferred Rs 80.36 lakh via bank transactions, Rs 10.51 lakh through online methods, and Rs 1.04 crore using the Angadia courier system, totaling Rs 1.95 crore. Authorities indicated that the perpetrators enticed the operator into ongoing transactions via email and WhatsApp before vanishing.
A case has been filed against unidentified individuals on charges of criminal breach of trust, cheating, and violations of the Information Technology Act.
In Gujarat, cases of visa fraud continue to emerge, with organized groups deceiving hopeful migrants with promises of jobs, education, or travel abroad.
These agents attract victims with enticing offers for opportunities in the US, Canada, and Europe, often demanding large sums for counterfeit documents, fake invitations, and false tickets. Numerous incidents have involved the misuse of student or tourist visas as a cover for illegal immigration, leaving many victims stranded overseas without any assistance.
Authorities state that such scams capitalize on the desperation of families seeking improved opportunities, with investigations regularly leading to arrests of agents operating in Ahmedabad, Anand, and Northern Gujarat.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the alarming rise of travel fraud in Gujarat, particularly against those who are simply trying to provide services. This incident serves as a stark reminder for vigilance in online transactions and the necessity of verifying the authenticity of business partners.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the woman travel operator in Gujarat?
The woman travel operator was defrauded of over Rs 1.95 crore by scammers posing as legitimate travel agents.
How did the fraud occur?
The fraudsters initially gained the victim's trust by completing previous bookings and later offered fake travel packages.
What was the total amount lost?
The total amount lost by the travel operator was Rs 1.95 crore.
What actions are being taken against the fraudsters?
A case has been registered against unidentified individuals for criminal breach of trust and cheating.
Are travel fraud cases common in Gujarat?
Yes, there has been a rise in travel fraud cases in Gujarat, with various rackets targeting aspiring migrants.
