An Indian female tourist has been arrested in Illinois, USA, on charges of theft. The woman is accused of spending approximately seven hours in a shopping store in Illinois, during which she allegedly committed the theft.
US News: The theft case involving an Indian female tourist in the United States has not only caused a stir on social media, but it also presents a significant lesson for Indian tourists and visa applicants planning to visit the US in the future. Following this incident, the US Embassy in India has issued a clear warning to Indian visa applicants stating that if you are found involved in any illegal activity in the US, not only will your visa be cancelled, but it will also become difficult to enter the United States in the future.
Incident at Illinois Shopping Store
The incident occurred in the state of Illinois, USA, where an Indian woman is accused of spending approximately seven hours in a large shopping store and attempting to steal goods worth around $1300 (approximately ₹1.80 lakh). The woman's name is reported to be Avalani. CCTV footage clearly shows her wandering around the store for several hours and gradually collecting items in her trolley. When she started to leave without paying, the staff apprehended her and immediately informed the police.
Woman's Explanation to the Police
After her arrest, the woman told the police, "I am not from this country, I am just here for tourism. If you want, I am ready to pay for everything. Please forgive me if I have caused any trouble." The police officer reprimanded the woman, saying, "Is it permitted to steal in India? I don't think so."
The police immediately took the woman into custody and registered a case of theft against her. All the stolen goods were recovered from the woman.
Strict Warning from the US Embassy
Following this incident, the US State Department and the Indian US Embassy issued an official warning. The embassy conveyed a clear message to Indian citizens via social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that theft or any kind of criminal activity in the United States can have serious consequences for you. It can lead to your visa being revoked, and you may be declared ineligible for a visa in the future.
The US State Department has also made it clear that even after a visa is issued, the concerned individual remains under surveillance. If a visa holder violates US laws and immigration regulations, their visa will be cancelled with immediate effect, and they will be deported from the United States.
Strictness Regarding Visa Rules During the Trump Administration
Although the incident occurred recently, the strictness regarding visa rules for such cases had already begun during the tenure of former US President Donald Trump's administration. Since the Trump administration, it has been clear to visa holders that if anyone breaks the law, there will be no delay in cancelling their visa.
In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in the number of tourists and students traveling from India to the United States. In such a situation, the US government wants to ensure that people entering their country fully respect its laws and social norms. Even minor offenses like theft fall under the category of serious crimes in the United States and can have a negative impact on your visa profile for the future.
