Investigation into Canadian Colleges Linked to Human Trafficking and Money Laundering
Introduction to the Case
In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of India has initiated an investigation concerning certain Canadian educational institutions and their alleged connections with Indian entities involved in a money laundering scheme associated with human trafficking across the Canada-U.S. border. This inquiry was prompted by a tragic incident on January 19, 2022, when a family of four from Dingucha village in Gujarat lost their lives due to severe cold while attempting an illegal border crossing.
Background of the Investigation
The ED’s investigation is rooted in a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by Ahmedabad Police against Bhavesh Ashokbhai Patel, who is identified as the main suspect, along with several accomplices. The agency has filed charges under various provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). According to officials at ED, Patel and his associates devised a “meticulously planned scheme” aimed at facilitating unlawful entry for Indian nationals into the United States via Canada—a clear case of human trafficking.
Modus Operandi Uncovered
The probe has unveiled that these individuals managed admissions for prospective students into Canadian colleges and universities under false pretenses related to higher education. After securing student visas and entering Canada, many students neglected their academic responsibilities in favor of illegally crossing over into U.S. territory.
Reports indicate that tuition fees paid by these students were often refunded back into their accounts post-admission—an action that raises serious questions about collusion between parties involved. It was revealed that Indian nationals were charged exorbitant fees ranging from ₹55 lakh to ₹60 lakh each for these illicit services.
Recent Developments in Searches Conducted
On December 10 and 19, recent searches conducted by ED across eight locations—including major cities like Mumbai, Nagpur, Gandhinagar, and Vadodara—have yielded preliminary findings implicating two organizations: one located in Mumbai and another based out of Nagpur. These entities are believed to facilitate admissions for over 35,000 Indian students annually across foreign universities; notably one organization accounts for approximately 25,000 referrals while another contributes around 10,000.
Moreover, investigations have uncovered an extensive network comprising roughly 1,700 agents operating within Gujarat alone—and about 3,500 throughout India—with around 800 actively engaged in this operation. Agreements have been discovered linking these agents with approximately 112 Canadian colleges on one front and more than150 institutions on another front; some colleges situated near the Canada-U.S border are suspected collaborators in human trafficking activities.
Seizures Made During Investigations
During these investigative operations led by ED officials recently frozen bank deposits amounting to ₹19 lakh were identified alongside two vehicles seized as part of evidence collection efforts. Additionally numerous incriminating documents along with digital devices have been recovered which may provide further insights into this complex web involving educational institutions abroad.
The agency continues its scrutiny regarding how implicated Canadian colleges may be contributing towards facilitating such trafficking activities given their strategic locations near international borders—a factor likely enhancing opportunities for illegal crossings.
This ongoing investigation highlights critical issues surrounding international student recruitment practices as well as potential exploitation within educational frameworks designed ostensibly for legitimate purposes but potentially serving darker agendas instead.
