In a stunning operation, New Zealand police and officials from the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE) have unearthed a labyrinthine immigration fraud scheme centered in Auckland. This scheme, preying on Indian and Bangladeshi nationals, has shaken the foundations of the country’s immigration system.
Three simultaneous search warrants were executed at both the business and residential addresses of a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) implicated in the alleged fraud.
New Zealand Visa Issues
The investigation has revealed that this adviser was the linchpin in a scam that involved selling false job offers to offshore migrants and fraudulently obtaining work visas through Immigration New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa category.
The scam demanded exorbitant payments ranging from NZD $20,000 to $40,000 for a promised job and visa. However, upon arrival in New Zealand, these hopeful migrants were confronted with a harsh reality: the promised jobs simply did not exist. Furthermore, they found themselves housed in overcrowded and deplorable conditions.
Stephanie Greathead, Immigration National Manager Investigations, expressed her concern about the impact of this fraudulent operation on vulnerable migrants.
She stated, “Footage of migrants housed in awful conditions in Auckland shocked New Zealand and undermined trust and confidence in our immigration system. Immigration New Zealand continues to investigate this case to bring all those responsible to justice.”
Following the execution of the search warrants, the LIA was apprehended and now faces two charges of providing false and misleading information to Immigration New Zealand.
These charges fall under Section 342(1)(b) of the Immigration Act 2009, carrying a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment and/or a $100,000 fine. As the investigation unfolds, it is likely that additional charges will be filed against those involved.
Authorities are actively pursuing leads and investigating individuals connected to this alarming case, as the spectre of immigration fraud continues to cast a shadow over New Zealand’s reputation for a fair and equitable immigration system.
Also Read : H1B Program Evolves : Biden Administration Unveils Key Reforms