11 Indian nationals charged in US for allegedly staging armed robberies to obtain US Visas

Federal prosecutors in the United States have charged eleven Indian nationals for allegedly orchestrating a visa fraud scheme involving staged armed robberies of convenience stores and fast-food outlets to obtain immigration benefits. Authorities say the accused were living unlawfully across several states, including Massachusetts, Kentucky and Ohio.

According to the US Department of Justice, the group faces one count of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. The defendants have been identified as Jitendrakumar Patel (39), Maheshkumar Patel (36), Sanjaykumar Patel (45), Dipikaben Patel (40), Rameshbhai Patel (52), Amitabahen Patel (43), Ronakkumar Patel (28), Sangitaben Patel (36), Minkesh Patel (42), Sonal Patel (42), and Mitul Patel (40).

Prosecutors allege that the suspects arranged fake armed robberies at multiple stores beginning in March 2023. During these incidents, an accomplice posing as a robber reportedly brandished what appeared to be a firearm, took cash from registers and fled, while the events were captured on surveillance cameras. Store clerks or owners then allegedly delayed contacting police to strengthen the appearance of a genuine crime.

Authorities say the staged incidents were intended to support applications for a U non-immigrant visa , which is available to victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement. The visa provides work authorization and can lead to permanent residency.

Investigators allege that participants paid an organiser identified as Rambhai to act as “victims,” while store owners were compensated for allowing their premises to be used. Rambhai, along with the alleged robber and getaway driver, has already been charged and convicted in connection with the scheme.

Six defendants were arrested in Massachusetts and released after initial court appearances in Boston, while others were detained in Kentucky, Missouri and Ohio and are expected to face proceedings in Boston later. Dipikaben Patel has reportedly been deported to India after residing unlawfully in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

If convicted, each accused could face up to five years in prison, supervised release and fines of up to $250,000 .