Bangladeshi couple guilty of immigration and identity fraud

Bangladeshi couple Jahangir Alam and Taj Parvin Shilpi have been found guilty of 40 charges of immigration and identity fraud spanning two decades.

Alam used his brother’s identity to secure visas, residency, and citizenship for himself, his wife, and his mother, deceiving immigration authorities for 20 years.

Despite denying all charges, the couple was convicted after a six-year investigation by Immigration New Zealand, with the prosecution noting that Alam’s true identity remains unknown.

Immigration NZ hailed the conviction as a “strong message” against fraudulent practices that undermine the immigration system. The couple will be sentenced in May.

Steve Watson, General Manager Immigration Compliance & Investigations said, “This kind of offending strikes at the heart of the immigration system, undermining its integrity. We expect applicants to provide honest and complete information to show that they meet the requirements to be granted a visa, or to be allowed to enter New Zealand. Anyone who provides false information to Immigration New Zealand will be investigated and held to account for their actions.

“An investigation of this scale is extremely complex, and I’m incredibly proud of our dedicated investigations team who worked across the immigration system to thoroughly investigate this case and eventually bring it before the courts six years later.

“We were able to identify this criminal offending, prevent further offences from being committed and ultimately hold Alam and Shilpi accountable.”

Immigration New Zealand encourage anyone with any knowledge of immigration fraud to come forward. To report a case of fraud, contact the MBIE reporting line on 0800 200 088.

To report an issue anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.