Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Cases of overseas job fraud have been rising in Goa, with 27 complaints filed against illegal recruitment agents between 2021 and January 2026, the State Government informed the Legislative Assembly.
In a written reply to a starred question tabled by MLA Aleixo Lourenco, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who also holds the Home portfolio, said the complaints were lodged by emigrants and their families alleging cheating by agents promising jobs abroad.
According to the data placed before the House, the number of complaints has shown a steady increase over the years. While only one complaint was reported in 2021, the number rose to three cases each in 2022 and 2023, followed by six cases in 2024 and a sharp jump to twelve cases in 2025. Two complaints have already been registered in 2026 up to January 31.
Police have registered offences under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Emigration Act and the Information Technology Act in connection with the cases. Several of these cases are currently under investigation, while others are pending trial in courts.
Investigations have revealed that victims were allegedly cheated on the pretext of securing employment abroad, including jobs in countries such as the United States, Israel and Thailand, among other destinations.
The government further informed that 12 recruitment agencies are currently registered and active in Goa under the Emigration Act. Authorities said recruitment agencies operating in the State are monitored under applicable laws and criminal cases are registered whenever illegal recruitment activities are detected.
The government has also stepped up surveillance and awareness efforts, urging job seekers to approach only authorised recruitment agents listed by the Ministry of External Affairs to avoid falling prey to fraudulent overseas job offers.
