The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a major investigation into a fake passport scam involving a Kolkata-based businessman who allegedly made over 900 trips to Bangkok using fraudulent travel documents. The case has raised alarms over immigration security loopholes and potential ties to money laundering, smuggling, or organized crime.
How the Fake Passport Scam Was Uncovered
Authorities flagged the businessman, identified as Rajesh Mehta (name changed), after noticing his abnormally high travel frequency—nearly 900 trips to Thailand in a decade. A routine immigration check revealed that he had been visiting Bangkok almost twice a week, triggering suspicions.
Investigators later discovered that Mehta had used multiple fake passports, allegedly sourced from a well-organized document forgery syndicate. ED sources suspect these passports were used for illegal financial transactions, smuggling, or espionage.
ED’s Money Laundering Probe Intensifies
The ED, which handles financial crimes, took over the case due to possible hawala transactions and shell company fraud. Preliminary findings suggest Mehta’s frequent travels may have masked cross-border illegal activities.
“Making 900 trips without a legitimate reason is highly unusual. We’re probing deeper financial and criminal links,” an ED official said anonymously.
International Crime Syndicate Links Suspected
Bangkok is a known hub for illegal trade and financial fraud, and Thai authorities are now assisting in the investigation. Intelligence agencies are examining whether Mehta had ties to transnational crime networks in Southeast Asia.
There are also concerns about corruption in immigration departments, as such extensive passport fraud suggests possible insider involvement in India or Thailand.
Political Backlash & National Security Risks
The scandal has sparked political outrage, with opposition leaders demanding stricter passport verification reforms. Security experts warn that fake passports could be exploited by terrorists, smugglers, or spies, prompting the Home Ministry to audit passport issuance systems.
What Happens Next?
The ED is expected to question Mehta and his associates soon, while Kolkata Police’s Special Task Force (STF) raids suspected fake passport rackets. The case could reveal a far larger criminal network, exposing critical flaws in India’s border security.
Will this probe uncover just one fraudster, or an entire underground syndicate? Follow NextMinuteNews for live updates.
