Shocking Scam Targets Indians and Bangladeshis in New Zealand Immigration Racket

In recent revelations, an alarming immigration fraud racket has come to light in New Zealand, affecting the aspirations of Indian and Bangladeshi job seekers. The New Zealand Police, alongside officials from the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE), have successfully apprehended a licensed immigration consultant believed to be the mastermind behind the deceitful operation.

Details of the scam depict a scheme where the consultant sold fictitious job offers to foreign migrants, enticing them with the prospect of obtaining work visas through New Zealand's Accredited Employer Work Visa program. Shockingly, victims were coerced into paying significant amounts, ranging from NZD $20,000 to $40,000, for job opportunities that simply did not exist. This ultimately led to their accommodation in densely populated and substandard living conditions upon arrival.

Stephanie Greathead, the Immigration National Manager of Investigations, has highlighted the vulnerability of those who sought to improve their lives and support their families in New Zealand. The distressing images of migrants enduring deplorable living conditions have profoundly shaken public confidence in the country's immigration system.

The apprehended consultant is facing serious charges for deliberately providing false information to Immigration New Zealand. If found guilty, the individual could face a maximum sentence of up to 7 years in prison and/or a fine of $100,000. The ongoing investigations are dedicated to ensuring that all those involved in this exploitation are brought to justice, with the possibility of additional charges in the near future.