55 Migrant Workers Stranded After Russia Return as Europe Dream Turns Into Fraud Case

New Delhi, March 22, 2026; At least 55 migrant workers who returned from Russia are now left stranded and waiting for their passports after allegedly being cheated by agents who promised them employment opportunities in Europe, officials and affected workers said.

The workers claimed that they were lured with assurances of high-paying jobs abroad, but instead found themselves trapped in uncertain conditions, with their documents allegedly withheld by intermediaries upon their return.

Many of the affected individuals said they had invested significant savings and taken loans to secure overseas employment, hoping for better economic prospects, but their expectations were shattered after the promised opportunities failed to materialise.

Sources indicated that the group was initially sent abroad through a network of agents operating across multiple states, who facilitated travel arrangements under the guise of legitimate recruitment for European job placements.

Upon reaching Russia, several workers reportedly realised that the job conditions were different from what had been promised, leading to distress and eventual return to India under difficult circumstances.

After their return, the workers allege that their passports were not immediately returned, leaving them unable to travel or pursue alternative employment opportunities.

Family members of the affected workers have expressed concern over their financial hardship, stating that many households are now struggling to repay debts taken for overseas migration expenses.

Authorities are expected to investigate the role of recruitment agents and verify whether proper documentation and licensing procedures were followed in the recruitment process.

Officials also stated that action will be taken if any violations of labour migration laws or fraudulent practices are confirmed during the investigation.

Meanwhile, the stranded workers continue to demand urgent intervention to recover their documents and ensure accountability from those responsible for the alleged scam.