Foreign job scam: DoFE says Rs 760 million embezzled by frauds

May 19, Kathmandu: The Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE) has unveiled a shocking truth, revealing that fraudulent intermediaries and foreign employment agents have illicitly pocketed a staggering amount of Rs 760 million by deceitfully enticing individuals with promises of lucrative foreign job opportunities. This concerning revelation encompasses the data collected during the initial 10 months of the ongoing fiscal year.

As per the DoFE’s findings, a total of 925 applications were filed by victims up until the second week of May, collectively seeking a sum of Rs 757.7 million in financial losses. These funds were deceitfully collected by unauthorized agents and intermediaries, who lack the necessary authorization to facilitate overseas employment for migrant workers.

Gurudutta Subedi, the Information Officer of DoFE, expressed his dismay at the surge in fraudulent cases involving agents and intermediaries, despite strict government regulations that restrict the involvement of legally registered recruiting agencies in foreign job processes. Subedi highlighted that the number of fraud cases reported during the current fiscal year has surpassed those of the previous year.

Out of the 925 cases reported, the DoFE has taken legal action in 77 instances, filing them in court. Additionally, law enforcement agencies have apprehended 176 illegal agents involved in these fraudulent activities. Moreover, 135 individuals have managed to settle their cases in the presence of DoFE officials, leading to the return of Rs 94.3 million in cash to the victims.

Alarming statistics from the previous fiscal year reveal that approximately 700 fraud cases were registered, amounting to a sum of Rs 500.4 million in financial losses.

The widespread prevalence of such scams underscores the urgent need for enhanced measures to protect aspiring migrant workers from falling victim to unscrupulous agents and intermediaries. Authorities are expected to address this pressing issue and enforce stricter regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals seeking foreign employment opportunities.