Conviction of 'key figure' in international organised crime group welcomed

DHA issues statement after 25-year-old pleads guilty

The Department of Home Affairs has welcomed the conviction of a 25-year-old man described as a 'key figure in an international organised crime group' that targeted the Island's immigration system through fraudulent visa schemes.

Sagar Joon has pleaded guilty in the Court of General Gaol Delivery to breaching immigration law.

Between March 2022 and June 2023, Joon and his co-conspirators produced fake job offer letters and falsified certificates of entry, charging victims up to £25,000 for visas based on non-existent employment opportunities.

A tip-off from a member of the public led to the scheme being uncovered, and prompted a wider investigation by the Immigration Service and the Constabulary.

It identified a sham company, known as Destiny Manpower Consultancy, which was used to deceive vulnerable individuals seeking legitimate work opportunities.

Mr Joon is due to be sentenced on 5 November, when deportation and exclusion orders will be considered.

Justice and Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson says: 'This conviction sends a clear message: the Isle of Man will not tolerate the abuse of its immigration system. We are committed to protecting the integrity of our borders and ensuring that those who seek to exploit others for personal gain are brought to justice.

‘This case highlights the importance of the collaborative efforts between immigration officers and the Constabulary and our commitment to vigilance and robust enforcement in keeping our island safe.’

In a statement issued today (30 October) Government says The Treasury continues to strengthen compliance measures and is actively reviewing historical visa applications to identify and prevent further abuse. 

The Department of Home Affairs is urging anyone with concerns about immigration fraud or exploitation to report them confidentially to the Isle of Man Immigration Service by phoning 01624 685203 or emailing immigration@gov.im