“This incident represents just the tip of the iceberg. Numerous other Goans have similarly fallen prey to fraudulent agents, including those promising fake Portuguese passports. Although Mascarenhas and Souza took the brave step of filing complaints, countless others remain silent, too discouraged by the bureaucratic complexities that often accompany such pursuits.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant must take decisive action to protect the youth of Goa. The state police should be directed to conduct comprehensive crackdowns on fraudulent recruitment practices across Goa.”
In recent times, Goa has become a hotspot for aspiring workers looking for opportunities abroad. Unfortunately, this quest for better prospects has led some to fall victim to unscrupulous recruiting agents. A recent incident involving two young men from the state has underscored the urgent need for strong action against such fraudulent activities.
Advincent Mascarenhas, a 23-year-old from Sarzora, and Gladson Souza from Panchawadi, Shiroda, are the latest victims of a job scam orchestrated by Stanley George of Captain George Consultancy, a recruitment agency based in Vasco. Both men were lured by false promises of employment in reputable hotels or restaurants in the United States. Instead of securing the jobs they were led to believe they would have, they were illegally transported to Mexico with the harrowing task of crossing into the US unauthorized.
Their desperate situation took a turn for the worse when US border officials apprehended them, leading to their deportation back to India. Upon returning, Mascarenhas and Souza filed formal complaints, prompting Vasco police to register a First Information Report (FIR) against the accused. The shocking turn of events revealed that Captain George Consultancy had been operating without a valid license from the Protector of Emigrants, a crucial requirement for any agency engaged in overseas job placements.
The financial toll of the scam was staggering; Mascarenhas paid ₹8 lakh while Souza forked out ₹10.5 lakh, all under the false guise of guaranteed employment overseas. Their plight resonates deeply in a society where many youths dream of better futures abroad, making it imperative for the Goa government to step in.
This incident represents just the tip of the iceberg. Numerous other Goans have similarly fallen prey to fraudulent agents, including those promising fake Portuguese passports. Although Mascarenhas and Souza took the brave step of filing complaints, countless others remain silent, too discouraged by the bureaucratic complexities that often accompany such pursuits.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant must take decisive action to protect the youth of Goa. The state police should be directed to conduct comprehensive crackdowns on fraudulent recruitment practices across Goa.
This should include not only the immediate case involving Captain George Consultancy but also a thorough investigation into all recruitment agencies operating in the region to ensure they are compliant with government regulations.
Furthermore, it is essential to raise public awareness regarding the risks associated with relying on unregistered agents for employment abroad. Government campaigns to educate potential job seekers about the verification processes for agencies could significantly reduce the incidence of scams. Enhanced legal penalties for those operating without a license could serve as a deterrent for those considering exploiting the dreams of others.
The issues highlighted by the recent deportation of Mascarenhas and Souza call for urgent intervention from the Goa government. By taking a strong stance against fake recruiting agents, authorities can help safeguard the dreams of countless youths who aspire to a better life through honest means. The time for action is now, as the strength of a community lies in its ability to protect and uplift its members.
