11 Indians Arrested by FBI Over Visa Fraud Scheme in the U.S.

United States: Eleven Indian nationals living illegally in the U.S. have been arrested by the FBI on serious charges of visa fraud and conspiracy, according to federal prosecutors. The accused reportedly planned staged robberies at convenience stores and liquor shops to fraudulently qualify for U-Visas and eventually green cards.

The scheme spanned multiple states, including Massachusetts, Kentucky, and Ohio. The suspects allegedly arranged fake armed robberies where a “robber” would enter a store, threaten the clerk or owner with a weapon, and steal money from the cash register. The entire incident was recorded on CCTV cameras.

Under U.S. law, U-Visas are granted to individuals who are victims of crimes and assist law enforcement in investigations. Obtaining a U-Visa can later provide a pathway to permanent residency. In the staged robberies, the “robber” would flee the store, and the police were called about 5–10 minutes later. The victims involved in the plan paid the mastermind, who in turn shared proceeds with the store owners.

The arrested suspects include:

• Jitendra Kumar Patel (39)

• Mahesh Kumar Patel (36)

• Sanjay Kumar Patel (45)

• Deepika Ben Patel (40)

• Ramesh Bhai Patel (52)

• Amitabh Ben Patel (43)

• Raunak Kumar Patel (28)

• Sangeeta Ben Patel (36)

• Minkesh Patel (42)

• Sonal Patel (42)

• Mitul Patel (40)

Some were apprehended in Massachusetts, Ohio, and Kentucky.

If convicted, the accused could face up to five years in prison and fines totaling $250,000 (over ₹2 crore) for their involvement in this visa fraud conspiracy.

This case highlights growing concerns about immigration-related scams in the U.S. and the FBI’s ongoing efforts to target fraudulent visa schemes.