US Visa Fraud: 11 Indians Arrested for Fake Robberies

A new immigration fraud case involving Indian nationals has been uncovered in the United States. Authorities allege that the group staged armed robberies in order to misuse the visa system.

Federal prosecutors in Boston have charged 11 Indian nationals in connection with the case. All the accused share the surname Patel. Investigators say the group planned a conspiracy to commit visa fraud.

According to officials, the accused attempted to exploit the U visa programme. The visa is designed for victims of serious crimes who cooperate with law enforcement during investigations.

Investigators allege that fake armed robberies were organised at convenience stores and liquor shops across Massachusetts. These staged incidents were reportedly created to produce evidence for visa applications.

Authorities claim that Rambhai Patel, 52, acted as the robber during these incidents. He allegedly threatened store clerks with what appeared to be a firearm and took cash from the registers.

Investigators say the clerks were also involved in the scheme. They reportedly waited several minutes before calling the police, allowing the robber to escape and making the crime appear genuine.

Dipikaben Patel, 40, who had been living in Massachusetts, has already been deported to India. Several others have been arrested in connection with the alleged fraud.

Those arrested include Jitendrakumar Patel, 39, Maheshkumar Patel, 36, Sanjaykumar Patel, 45, Amitabahen Patel, 43, Ronakkumar Patel, 28, Sangitaben Patel, 36, Minkesh Patel, 42, Sonal Patel, 42, and Mitul Patel, 40.

Prosecutors say the accused allegedly used police reports and surveillance footage from these incidents. The material was then used to support U visa applications by claiming they were victims of crimes who helped investigators.

Authorities say the alleged fraud began in March 2023. The incidents reportedly took place at least six locations across Massachusetts.

If convicted, each defendant could face up to five years in prison. Officials say further details about the case are expected as legal proceedings continue.