ED Investigates Human Trafficking via Canadian Colleges

An investigation by India's Enforcement Directorate has uncovered a potential human trafficking scheme involving over 260 Canadian colleges and two entities based in Mumbai, which allegedly facilitated illegal migration of Indian students to the U.S. via Canada. The probe was initiated following the tragic death of the Patel family in January 2022, who froze to death while attempting an illegal border crossing. The scheme involved securing student visas for individuals purportedly for educational purposes, but upon arrival in Canada, these individuals would illegally cross into the U.S. The involved entities charged significant fees, reportedly between Rs 50-60 lakh, and the tuition fees paid to Canadian institutions were allegedly refunded, suggesting collusion. Canadian authorities, including the RCMP, are in communication with Indian officials, but no allegations have been proven in court yet.