Bengaluru couple arrested for ₹2.64 crore visa scam targeting jockeys

A couple running a multi-crore visa scam in Bengaluru has been arrested by the South East Cyber Crime Police. Identified as Saqlain Sultan and Nikhat Sultan, the duo allegedly duped 53 people of ₹2.64 crore through fraudulent job promises.

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Operating from Tilak Nagar, the couple lured horse-riding jockeys by advertising overseas job opportunities on social media under the name “Sultan International.” They claimed to have contacts in international turf clubs, promising lucrative salaries abroad. Victims were convinced to pay hefty sums for visas and related expenses.

The scam gained credibility as the couple initially helped two individuals secure jobs, later using their success stories to attract more victims. Each target reportedly paid up to ₹8 lakh. The fraud had been running for over 18 months, during which the accused traveled to destinations like Singapore and Sri Lanka with the illicit earnings.

Police have seized two cars, two bikes, ₹66 lakh in cash, and other assets worth ₹80 lakh from the accused. Following multiple complaints, authorities launched an investigation and arrested the couple within a week.

Law enforcement urges the public to verify job offers and visa processes before making payments. Investigations are ongoing to trace additional victims and recover the remaining funds.