Indian authorities launch probe after a tragic family death near the Manitoba-U.S. border
Indian law enforcement agencies are investigating alleged connections between multiple Canadian colleges and two entities in Mumbai accused of facilitating illegal student migration across the Canada-U.S. border. The investigation follows the tragic deaths of an Indian family near the border in January 2022, reported ici.radio-canada.
The Investigation Unfolds
India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED), which probes money laundering and foreign exchange violations, announced the discovery of evidence pointing to a large-scale human trafficking network. The allegations stem from the deaths of Jagdish Baldevbhai Patel, his wife, and two children near the Manitoba-U.S. border. The family froze to death during an attempted border crossing.
Sophisticated Smuggling Operation
Authorities claim the family paid between $93,000 and $102,000 to cross into the U.S. from Canada. The accused facilitators, Bhavesh Ashokbhai Patel and others, allegedly used Canadian college admissions as a pretext to obtain student visas, which were later canceled once individuals crossed the border illegally. Canadian colleges involved remain unnamed as investigations continue.
Key Developments
Last month, a U.S. jury convicted Steve Shand, a Florida resident, and Harshkumar Patel, an Indian national, for human smuggling. Shand acted as a driver, while Patel coordinated logistics for unauthorized border crossings. Only seven out of eleven Indian migrants survived their perilous journey. Both convicted individuals await sentencing.
Systemic Issues and Widespread Networks
Investigators revealed that approximately 25,000 students were sent abroad annually by one Mumbai entity, with 10,000 more referred by another. These entities had agreements with over 112 Canadian colleges and 150 other institutions, creating a vast network with thousands of agents across India. The ED claims students often bypassed attending college to join smuggling networks.
Diplomatic and Security Implications
The case has intensified diplomatic tensions between Canada and India. Ottawa recently expelled Indian diplomats over allegations of illegal intelligence operations, while New Delhi denies involvement. Simultaneously, the U.S. pressures Canada to bolster border security amid increasing migration concerns. These developments highlight the complex intersection of human rights, immigration, and international relations.
Preventive Measures and Warnings
Anil Pratham, a retired police official in Gujarat, urged aspiring migrants to pursue legal avenues. “There are legitimate ways to study or work abroad. Avoid shortcuts that risk lives and tarnish reputations,” he said. Investigations continue with cooperation from Canadian and U.S. authorities, emphasizing the need for global collaboration to dismantle human trafficking networks.
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