In a recent development, a Sri Lankan youth’s attempt to escape to France using a counterfeit visa has been foiled at the Bandaranaike International Airport. Reports indicate that the individual, who had paid Rs. 3.5 million to a Ugandan woman, was apprehended as he sought to embark on his journey via Dubai.
Lankadeepa, a local news source, shed light on the intricate details of the case. The youth’s intentions to travel to France were facilitated by the acquisition of a forged visa, which he obtained with the assistance of a Ugandan woman. This partnership involved a significant financial transaction, whereby the youth paid a substantial sum to secure his illicit travel arrangements.
Authorities from the Department of Immigration and Emigration intercepted the suspect at the Katunayake Airport. The apprehended individual, a 24-year-old resident of Matara, was previously employed at a casino based in Colombo. His recent stint at a casino in Uganda two months prior played a pivotal role in the unfolding of this case.
It has come to light that the youth resorted to selling his parents’ land, jewelry, and even his own motorcycle to gather the required US $3000 for the forged visa. This desperate act illustrates the lengths to which he went to fulfill his illicit aspirations.
The collaboration between the Sri Lankan youth and the Ugandan woman highlights the cross-border nature of this incident, with individuals from different countries coming together for unlawful purposes. The successful apprehension underscores the vigilance and diligence of immigration officials in safeguarding the integrity of international travel and immigration procedures.
As this case continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by fraudulent activities in the realm of international travel and the critical role that border control and law enforcement agencies play in maintaining the security and legality of such processes.
