In a recent development, York Regional Police have apprehended two individuals on charges of fraud following a distressing incident where two residents from Markham, Ontario, fell victim to a visa and immigration scam, resulting in a loss of $40,000.
The investigation initiated back in 2022 when a concerned individual reported to the police that their company name was being exploited for fraudulent activities.
Upon further inquiry, it was revealed that three individuals had purportedly offered visa and immigration services to two unsuspecting victims from Markham. According to the police statement, the victims entrusted significant sums of money to the accused with the expectation of obtaining visa assistance for their relatives to immigrate to Canada. However, the accused, lacking the requisite qualifications, failed to deliver on their promised services, thereby deceiving the victims and causing a financial loss exceeding $40,000.
It was disclosed that the suspects specifically targeted individuals within the Iranian Canadian community. Authorities suspect there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward.
Charges have been brought against a 45-year-old woman and a 66-year-old woman from Richmond Hill. The charges include defrauding the public of over $5,000, conspiracy to commit fraud exceeding $5,000, participating in a criminal organization, and one of the women faces an additional charge of uttering a forged document.
Police have identified a third suspect, a 65-year-old man from Richmond Hill, who remains at large.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and thorough scrutiny when dealing with immigration and visa services to avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes.
