20 Gujaratis Trapped in Russia After Job Scam, Police Investigating

20 youths from Gujarat's Anand and Vadodara are reportedly stranded in Russia after being lured with promises of jobs offering ₹1 to ₹1.5 lakh monthly salaries. Upon arrival, they claim to have received significantly lower wages, with women being paid ₹6,000 and men around ₹10,000. Allegations include poor living conditions, withheld passports, and demands for $500 and self-funded tickets to return to India.

The accused, Rimphal Kumar Patel from Petlad, allegedly charged ₹2.10 to ₹3 lakh per person to send 33 individuals to Russia for jobs in fish packing and tailoring. Police estimate the total amount collected at ₹78 lakh. Patel has been arrested, and the Anand LCB is investigating the case. Authorities are in contact with the stranded individuals via phone and video calls, working on their safe return.

Victims claim they were forced into different work than promised, faced salary cuts, and were confined indoors with limited food and water. Families have sought help from Anand MP Mitesh Patel, who stated efforts are underway to retrieve passports and ensure their return. Earlier, in November 2025, 13 individuals returned from Russia citing similar issues.

Anand DSP JN Panchal confirmed a complaint was filed on June 5, alleging breach of contract and lack of efforts to bring the stranded individuals back. Investigations are ongoing to identify others involved in the scam. Families demand swift action and strict punishment for the culprits.