CBSA investigation leads to convictions for immigration violations
News release
December 9, 2022 Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada Border Services Agency
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) plays a key role in ensuring the integrity of our immigration system. The CBSA announced today the conviction of Kawser Ahammed, 39, of Saskatoon for immigration related violations.
In September 2020, the CBSA began an investigation after receiving information that Ahammed was allegedly assisting foreign nationals to submit fraudulent documents related to immigration applications. On October 7, 2021, the CBSA executed a search warrant at Ahammed’s residence where digital devices and suspected fraudulent documents were seized. Analysis of the electronic devices revealed evidence that Ahammed knowingly assisted at least four foreign nationals to misrepresent themselves and provide false information on immigration forms and applications.
The CBSA laid charges under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the Criminal Code of Canada based on the evidence collected.
On November 2, 2022, Ahammed pleaded guilty at the Saskatoon courthouse to:
- IRPA Section 91(1) Unauthorized Representation or advice for a fee – one count
- IRPA Section 127 Misrepresentation of the IRPA – one count
- Criminal Code Section 380 (Fraud under $5,000) – one count
Ahammed was sentenced to 8 months of house arrest, followed by 10 months probation and issued a $5,000 fine.
Quotes
“The CBSA investigates and pursues the prosecution of individuals who abuse Canada’s immigration system. This case is an example of the hard work of our criminal investigators who are committed to dismantling acts of immigration violations and protecting our borders.”
- Brad Wozny, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, Canada Border Services Agency
Quick facts
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Section 91 of the IRPA is designed to protect victims of immigration violations by making it a criminal offense to provide immigration advice for a fee unless the provider is a lawyer licensed to practice law by a provincial licensing body, or an immigration consultant licensed by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council.
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The CBSA is responsible for identifying, investigating and prosecuting individuals and entities that are connected to organized crime, human smuggling, immigration fraud, terrorism and other violations of the Customs Act and the IRPA.
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Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious immigration activities to the CBSA by calling 1-888-502-9060.
Contacts
Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
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