Mirpur, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — Authorities in Mirpur have responded to a surge in complaints against fake visa and employment agents by establishing district-level inquiry committees. The move aims to shield job seekers from being exploited through promises of overseas employment.
Residents allege that several unlicensed agents and agencies lure people with foreign job offers, collect substantial sums under the guise of visa processing, and then vanish. When victims press for refunds, they are often intimidated or threatened into silence, officials say.
Described by local leaders as a “serious criminal and social issue,” the matter has prompted urgent administrative action. The newly formed committees will audit, verify, and hold accountable any person or firm involved in overseas recruitment within their districts.
Structure of Inquiry Committees (District-Level):
Mirpur: Additional Deputy Commissioner (Chair), Assistant Commissioner (Member), and the Station House Officer (SHO) of the concerned police station
Kotli: Additional Deputy Commissioner (Chair), Assistant Commissioner (Member), and the local SHO
Bhimber: Additional Deputy Commissioner (Chair), Assistant Commissioner (Member), and the corresponding SHO
Each committee has been directed to submit a detailed report and set of recommendations by October 31, 2025.
The residents of Mirpur, many of whom have deep ties to overseas labour markets, view this crackdown as a necessary step toward restoring public confidence. They stress that oversight and strict action must follow the investigations so that those responsible for fraud face legal consequences.
Meanwhile, officials have issued precautionary advice: anyone considering employment abroad should first confirm whether the agent or agency is officially registered and legally operating.
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