Gujarat HC Rejects Bail in Alleged Visa Fraud Case, Says Economic Offences Threaten Nation’s Financial Health

The Gujarat High Court has rejected the bail application of an accused in an alleged fake visa and work-permit fraud case, observing that socio-economic offences pose a serious threat to the country’s financial health and require a distinct judicial approach.

The accused allegedly operated under multiple aliases, including Ankit, Aksi, Raj, Rocky Patel and Ashok Patel. According to the investigation, he frequently changed locations to evade arrest before being apprehended through technical surveillance.

Investigators alleged that forged visas purportedly issued by the Albanian Embassy were used to defraud 16 victims of ₹2,87,51,410. The victims were allegedly promised work permits for Canada, Finland and Albania.

Digital Evidence Points to Alleged Coordination

The court noted that the applicant allegedly shared an IP address and official email address with co-accused persons who remain absconding, indicating possible coordination in the alleged fraud.

The investigation also uncovered a financial trail through private Angadia channels. According to the prosecution, victims received cash payouts through specific code words and tokens issued directly by the applicant.

Investigators also recovered digital logs, mobile phone chats concerning passports and visas, and device credentials allegedly linked to the accused.

The charges were subsequently enhanced under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) to include Section 316(5), which provides for a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.

Court Cites Risk of Absconding and Evidence Tampering

While rejecting the bail plea, the court observed that white-collar economic crimes form a distinct category of offences involving calculated and deliberate actions for personal gain.

The bench acknowledged that individual liberty is a fundamental consideration but said it is not absolute and must be balanced against the larger public interest.

The court also cited concerns that releasing the accused could create a risk of witness tampering, destruction of evidence and absconding.