Investigation Service arrests suspect in major academic visa fraud scheme

11:06, 15.11.2024

The Investigation Service of the Ministry of Finance of Georgia, in coordination with the Kvemo Kartli District Prosecutor’s Office, has arrested one person following operational search activities and investigative actions. The arrest was made under a court ruling for fraudulently obtaining large sums of money belonging to others.

The investigation revealed that the accused created a Facebook group advertising supposed educational programs in the United States and the United Kingdom. The suspect defrauded 26 individuals who joined the group, falsely promising them that they would be enrolled in educational exchange programs and receive US and UK visas upon payment of specific fees.

Through this scheme, the accused fraudulently obtained a total of GEL 36,000 from 26 individuals from July 2023 to August 2024.

The investigation is proceeding under Article 180, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carries a prison sentence of 6 to 9 years.

By - Svetlana Alimova

Justice/Crime

Investigation Service