Gujarat Youths Stranded in Dubai After Losing Rs 2.74 Lakh in Recruitment Scam
In a distressing incident, two young men from Gujarat found themselves stranded in Dubai without their passports after falling victim to a sophisticated recruitment scam. The duo, hailing from Nadiad, lost a staggering Rs 2.74 lakh to fraudsters who promised lucrative jobs in the United Arab Emirates. Their ordeal highlights the growing risks associated with overseas employment fraud.
How the Scam Unfolded
The victims, Smitrajsinh Zala, aged 22, and his friend, were lured by an advertisement on social media in July 2025. The ad promoted job opportunities in Dubai with monthly salaries ranging from AED 3,500 to AED 5,500, along with free accommodation, food, licenses, and other benefits. Intrigued by the offer, they contacted the number provided and visited an office in Navrangpura, Ahmedabad.
At the office, an individual posing as a company manager assured them of a two-year work visa. The accused collected their passports and initial payments, setting the stage for the scam. Over the following weeks, the youths transferred a total of Rs 2.74 lakh in instalments after being shown fabricated visa documents and air tickets.
Stranded in a Foreign Land
In September 2025, the two travelled to Dubai, where another person met them at the airport and confiscated their passports. Upon arrival, they were forced to sign new agreements and were denied the promised accommodation, food, and jobs. Shockingly, they were told that workers often remain unemployed for months in such situations.
When they sought assistance, the individual threatened them and refused to help. Left with no options, the youths approached the Indian Embassy in Dubai, which revealed that the company was not registered with the Ministry of External Affairs, confirming the fraudulent nature of the operation.
Rescue and Return to India
After enduring significant hardships and relying on relatives for temporary shelter, the duo returned to India in November 2025 using emergency travel documents facilitated by the embassy. Their experience underscores the critical role of diplomatic missions in aiding citizens abroad during crises.
Legal Action and Investigation
Upon their return, Smitrajsinh Zala filed a complaint with the Detection of Crime Branch (DCB) in Ahmedabad. The DCB has registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, charging the accused with cheating and breach of trust. An investigation is currently underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
This case serves as a stark reminder for job seekers to verify the credentials of recruitment agencies through official channels before making any payments or handing over personal documents.
