Fiji police have stopped a major immigration scam involving fake New Zealand visas.
Dozens of people desperate to leave the troubled island nation have lost tens of thousands of dollars in a scheme to get them into New Zealand - and police fear it is just the tip of the iceberg.
The Chand family struggle to survive, sharing one small bedroom, but it doesn't stop them having big dreams for their children.
"At the moment in Fiji less pay, that's the problem, we work hard, less pay, that's why I want to go to New Zealand," scam victim Arvin Chand told ONE News.
When the family heard of someone who could arrange it quickly for them, they jumped at the chance.
The Chands borrowed $5000 from friends and family and police say they are not alone.
Last week a family of four were stopped trying to leave Nadi airport with fake Australian visas. Police then followed a trail which led them to a Suva home where they found 30 passports - some with bogus visas.
"We believe these passports have been stamped with fake visas for Australia and New Zealand," Fiji police inspector Mansoor Ali says.
They have arrested and charged Alvin Singh, 26.
Police allege Singh charged between $2000 and $40,000 for each visa. They say more cases are being uncovered around Fiji and they expect to lay further charges in the next few days.
The court has ordered that Singh stay in police custody.
Police are also investigating whether Singh's clients knowingly bought fake visas or whether they are just innocent victims.
But what is clear is that the Chand's travel plans and dreams of a better future in New Zealand have ended.
