JAMMU, Oct 8: The Crime Branch (Economic Offences Wing), Jammu, has filed a chargesheet against siblings Poonam Sharma and Akash Sharma, both residents of Janipur, Jammu, in a case involving alleged visa fraud and cheating of an individual seeking an Australian work visa for his son.
The chargesheet has been presented before the Court of 13th FC, Jammu, in connection with FIR No. 08/2026, registered at Police Station Crime Branch (EOW), Jammu, under Sections 420, 468, 120-B and 201 RPC, besides Sections 10 and 24 of the Emigration Act, 1983.
According to the Crime Branch, the case originated from a written complaint filed by Jaspal Singh, resident of Digiana, Jammu, who alleged that he paid Rs 2.30 lakh through cheque to accused Poonam Sharma for arranging an Australian work visa for his son. The accused allegedly provided a fake job offer letter, purportedly issued by “Drillfit Energy Queensland, Australia”, to convince the complainant and induce him to part with money.
The investigation, conducted by DySP Vishal Sharma, uncovered alleged fraudulent practices involving M/s Futuristic Education Consultancy, reportedly run by the accused siblings. During the probe, official records obtained from the Deputy Labour Commissioner, Jammu, revealed that the consultancy had been registered only up to March 31, 2015, and was allegedly operating thereafter without valid authorization or renewal.
The Crime Branch investigation further established that Akash Sharma was operating as the proprietor of the unauthorized consultancy, while his sister Poonam Sharma allegedly acted as an agent. The siblings allegedly lured unemployed youth with promises of securing overseas employment and visas, thereby exploiting their aspirations to move abroad.
The investigation also brought to light allegations of the accused being habitual offenders involved in similar criminal activities, the Crime Branch stated. Following completion of the investigation, the chargesheet was accordingly filed before the competent court for judicial determination.
SSP Crime Branch EOW Jammu has cautioned the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent immigration and overseas employment consultancies and advised people to verify the credentials and authorization of agencies before making payments.
Victims of economic fraud may report complaints to Crime Branch EOW Jammu through sspcrimejmu@jkpolice.gov.in or contact 0191-2578901.