Around 133 people who claim they were cheated in an alleged overseas visa and job fraud staged a protest at Koodaranji in Kozhikode, demanding the arrest of the accused and recovery of crores of rupees they say they lost.

Visa Fraud Victims Stage Protest in Koodaranji

Victims of an alleged overseas visa and employment fraud organised a protest in Koodaranji on Sunday, bringing together complainants from different parts of Kerala.

The protesters alleged that nearly 133 people had paid money to siblings identified as Jainet Chacko and Jain Chacko, who they said operated an agency based in Pantheerankavu. According to the complainants, the total amount allegedly lost runs into crores of rupees.

Victims Say Life Savings Were Lost

The protesters said many applicants had handed over substantial sums after being promised visas and employment opportunities abroad. Some claimed they used their life savings, while others borrowed money to make the payments.

In certain cases, families allegedly sold wedding jewellery to arrange the required amount, believing that overseas jobs and visas would follow. The complainants said the promised opportunities did not materialise, leaving them under severe financial pressure.

Protesters Demand Arrest and Money Recovery

During the protest, participants demanded immediate legal action against the accused and steps to recover the money they had paid. They distributed notices carrying images of the accused among local residents and people leaving nearby churches, explaining their allegations and seeking public attention to the case.

The demonstrators said they would intensify their agitation in the coming days if stronger legal action was not taken and their money was not returned.

Claims of Misleading Visa Advertisements

The complainants also alleged that photographs of some victims were used in promotional material to suggest that they had successfully obtained overseas visas, even though they remained in Kerala. The allegation has added to their demand for a detailed investigation into how the agency promoted its services and collected money from job seekers.

The protest highlights the financial risks faced by people seeking employment abroad and the growing demand among victims for accountability, recovery of funds and timely legal action.