MUMBAI: The Italian consulate in New Delhi is probing possible visa issuance violations by some of its own staff who allegedly acted in collusion with two officials of Thomas Cook, a travel company. The case came to light when 10 travellers from India to Italy recently went missing after arrival in Italy.
According to consulate sources, investigations by immigration authorities in Italy revealed that those missing were travelling on documents issued by Thomas Cook in Kolkata.
Two Thomas Cook officials from the Kolkata branch have been eased out for allegedly conniving with the racketeers. Italian investigators are checking the extent of the racket, since one source says as many as 300 people may have been issued dubious documents.
The middlemen involved are alleged to have charged as much as Rs 2 lakh each for issuing these documents, including Thomas Cook letterheads used for forwarding visa applications.
In a statement to DNA last week, the Italian consulate in New Delhi said: "We take whatever allegations we receive over visa issuance very seriously. However, we are unable to make any specific comment at the moment as we are currently verifying the situation."
When DNA contacted the managing director of Thomas Cook, Madhavan Menon, he replied: "I dont know what you are talking about." Anamitra Biswas, Kolkata region head of Thomas Cook, said declined comment saying only the managing director could talk on this.
Immediately after DNAs phone call, Thomas Cook sent an official statement to DNA which said: "We have not received any such information. And in the absence of any authentication of facts we are unable to comment at this point of time. Please note that if we learn of any such activity in the future or in due course of time we will investigate into the matter."
A detailed questionnaire sent to Thomas Cook on Thursday last week still remains unanswered.
