NEW DELHI – A major investigation by India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) has exposed a disturbing network connecting institutions in Maharashtra with approximately 260 Canadian colleges involved in the illegal smuggling of Indian citizens across the U.S.-Canada border. The probe was triggered by the tragic deaths of a Gujarati family of four who perished while attempting to cross into the U.S. from Canada in 2022.
The investigation has revealed that educational and travel consultancies in India are collaborating with these Canadian colleges to facilitate human trafficking. Individuals are allegedly obtaining Canadian student visas through these consultancies, only to then attempt dangerous crossings into the U.S. via the "Dunkey route" – a term for illegal border crossing paths.
Reporter Muhammad Gazali provided insights into the intricate web of illegal activities, highlighting the misuse of student visas as a cover for illegal immigration. The ED's involvement signifies the financial nature of the operation, with investigations focusing on the money trails linked to the smuggling activities.
Key findings of the investigation include:
- Tragic Catalyst: The 2022 deaths of a Gujarati family attempting an illegal border crossing.
- ED Intervention: The Enforcement Directorate's involvement due to financial links to the smuggling network.
- Widespread Implication: Approximately 260 Canadian colleges are under scrutiny for their alleged role in facilitating illegal immigration.
- Agent Network: Indian educational and travel consultancies are suspected of collaborating with Canadian colleges.
- Visa Abuse: The investigation revealed the misuse of student visas for illegal border crossings.
- Dangerous Routes: The use of the perilous "Dunkey route" for illegal entry into the U.S.
The investigation has raised serious concerns about systemic corruption within educational consultancies in India and the impact on legitimate students seeking to study abroad. It also underscores the global issue of human trafficking and the need for stronger international cooperation and regulatory oversight. The ED's investigation could lead to significant legal repercussions for both the agents and the implicated educational institutions, including potential criminal charges, license revocations, and stricter regulations for the sector. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the extreme dangers associated with illegal border crossings and the urgent need for safer, legal migration pathways.
