Punjab Police Execute Raids on 1,274 Immigration Firms; Seven Arrested
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Synopsis
On February 25, the Punjab Police conducted extensive raids at 1,274 immigration firms, leading to the arrest of seven individuals. This operation, initiated by DGP Gaurav Yadav, aims to combat illegal travel agents amidst rising deportations from the US.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab Police conducted raids at 1,274 immigration firms.
- Seven arrests made during the operation.
- Initiative directed by Gaurav Yadav.
- 24 FIRs filed against defaulter agents.
- Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted for further investigations.
Chandigarh, Feb 25 (NationPress) In a significant operation targeting unlawful travel agents, the Punjab Police have executed raids and search missions at 1,274 immigration firms, resulting in the arrest of seven individuals.
This initiative against unlawful travel agents was undertaken under the directives of Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, occurring simultaneously across all 28 police districts from 11 a.m. until late evening on Monday.
The action aligns with the ongoing campaign against illegal travel agents following the deportation of Indians from the US.
Special DGP, Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, who oversaw this extensive state-level operation, announced on Tuesday that police teams have filed at least 24 first information reports (FIRs) against defaulting travel agents and apprehended seven.
He revealed that all Commissioners of Police (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) were instructed to form special police teams under the oversight of gazetted officers to carry out searches at all immigration and travel agent offices.
"All CPs and SSPs were mandated to enforce stringent actions against travel agents found breaching the obligatory regulations and processes outlined in the Punjab Travel Professionals’ Regulation Act of 2012 or deceiving individuals with false guarantees of facilitating illegal entry into foreign nations," stated the Special DGP.
According to the Punjab Travel Professionals' Regulation Act 2012, it is mandatory for all travel agents to secure a license from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, valid for five years. Licensed agents are also obliged to display their license prominently, maintain records of clients and services, and notify authorities before advertising or conducting seminars.
Moreover, agents are forbidden from engaging in activities beyond their licensed services, including human smuggling or unauthorized migration assistance.
Non-compliance could lead to suspension or revocation of the license and legal repercussions.
Special DGP Shukla mentioned that the DGP has set up a four-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by ADGP, NRI Affairs, Praveen Sinha, to probe complaints from deportees, if any, and take appropriate actions as prescribed by law.
