Gujarati man faces US deportation for visa fraud

A Gujarat-born businessman residing in the United States is facing possible deportation after pleading guilty in connection with a large-scale immigration fraud and money-laundering case.

Federal court documents indicate that Chandrakant “Lala” Patel admitted involvement in a conspiracy linked to the misuse of the US U-visa programme, which is intended to assist victims of serious crimes who cooperate with law-enforcement agencies.

Prosecutors allege that the scheme involved the creation of fraudulent claims and supporting documentation to help individuals obtain immigration benefits.

As part of a plea agreement, Patel has reportedly agreed to forfeit multiple assets, including bank accounts, vehicles, jewellery and real estate holdings.

The case forms part of a broader federal investigation into alleged immigration- related fraud activities. Sentencing will be determined by the court following completion of the pre-sentence review process.