Fraud Against Migrants Under the Guise of Law:From Forged Residency to Extortion in Uniform Report by Ahmad Zahir Naseri

Fraud Against Migrants Under the Guise of Law:From Forged Residency to Extortion in Uniform

Report by Ahmad Zahir Naseri

In recent days, separate but related cases of targeted exploitation of foreign migrants—particularly Afghan nationals—in Tehran and Mashhad have been uncovered, exposing deeply concerning dimensions of fraud and abuse against some of the most vulnerable members of society.

🔺 In Tehran, an organized network was discovered operating an unauthorized office that, through widespread online advertising, solicited passports from foreign nationals. The group stamped forged entry and renewal marks into these documents, charging migrants significant amounts in exchange for fraudulent extensions. Exploiting migrants’ urgent need for valid documents, the network not only defrauded them financially but also put their legal identity and security at serious risk. Following police investigations, members of the ring were arrested, and migrants who had used these forged services were deported.

🔺 In Mashhad, a young man disguised as a police officer with the rank of sergeant was arrested for extorting Afghan workers and local shopkeepers. Taking advantage of the public’s trust in law enforcement, the impostor threatened victims, committed theft, and extorted money under the cover of official authority. After multiple public reports and careful tracking by the Resalat Police Station, he was apprehended while attempting another burglary. Interrogations revealed he had repeatedly exploited migrants and citizens by impersonating an officer, admitting to numerous crimes.

🔺 These cases paint an alarming picture of the reality faced by migrants, who are frequently targeted by opportunistic groups exploiting legal loopholes, false authority, and migrants’ lack of information. From forged official documents to abuse of law enforcement uniforms, such schemes underscore the urgent need for stricter oversight, public awareness, and legal protections for migrants.

Migrants already struggle with economic and social challenges, yet they are further victimized by networks profiting from their vulnerability. Combating this phenomenon requires coordinated action by security and judicial authorities, media, and civil society to safeguard both the safety and dignity of all individuals—regardless of nationality. Ultimately, protecting minorities within a society is essential to ensuring the security of the majority.

Report by Ahmad Zahir Naseri

For AfgNews24