MCAST Student Receives Jail Sentence for Using Fake Passport to Travel to Europe
A 26-year-old Vietnamese MCAST student has been sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to using a third party’s passport in order to travel to Europe. The young woman, Nguyen Thi Hanh, left her newborn baby in Vietnam and embarked on the journey using a passport that did not belong to her.
On September 2, Hanh was arrested at the airport along with a large group of individuals involved in a travel visa racket, as described by the police. Inspector Karl Roberts charged Hanh with possession and attempted use of a passport issued to another person, as well as making a false representation to the Principal Immigration Officer.
The court proceedings took place under the presidency of Magistrate Claire Stafrace Zammit. Hanh appeared anxious in the dock, making attempts to calm herself down through breathing exercises. Representing her as legal aid counsel, lawyer Luke Valletta entered a guilty plea on her behalf.
Inspector Roberts informed the court that cases like this have become increasingly common, labeling the visa-issuing situation as almost a racket. The court concurred, acknowledging that despite custodial sentences being frequently imposed, such instances persist.
Valletta argued for a suspended sentence and immediate deportation, highlighting that Hanh had recently given birth and entrusted her newborn daughter to her mother’s care in Vietnam.
Inspector Roberts disclosed to the court that there is currently a racket involving Vietnamese nationals who pay exorbitant amounts, up to €18,500, to obtain a student visa for Malta without any genuine interest in learning. He added that Malta is widely known as the easiest place to acquire a Schengen visa. Hanh had intended to travel to Budapest, according to her statement to the police.
Magistrate Stafrace Zammit cautioned the defendant that confirming her guilty plea would result in a prison sentence followed by deportation. However, Hanh maintained her admission of guilt.
Taking into account her cooperation with the authorities and early admission of guilt, the court sentenced Hanh to six months in jail, the minimum penalty applicable in this particular case.
This incident sheds light on the concerning issue of individuals misusing passports and engaging in visa fraud. It serves as a reminder of the importance of strict visa regulations and the need for vigilance to curb such activities. Violating immigration laws can have serious consequences, impacting not only the individuals involved but also the integrity of the visa system. Authorities and immigration departments worldwide must remain diligent in tackling visa fraud and ensuring the security of international travel.
As the case concludes, it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences awaiting those who choose to deceive immigration authorities through fraudulent means.
