Washington DC: A recent shoplifting incident involving an Indian woman in the United States has prompted the US Embassy in India to issue a public advisory, warning that such offences could result in serious immigration consequences, including visa revocation and future travel bans.
The advisory, posted by the embassy on social media, came after a video went viral showing a woman of Indian origin being arrested in Illinois for allegedly stealing merchandise worth over $1,000 from a Target retail store. The footage, taken from a police body camera, showed the woman pleading with officers, saying she was willing to pay for the items. However, the police clarified that once she left the store without paying, the act qualified as felony theft under US law.
Committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States won’t just cause you legal issues – it could lead to your visa being revoked and make you ineligible for future U.S. visas. The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all U.S. laws. pic.twitter.com/MYU6tx83Zh
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) July 16, 2025
In response, the US Embassy cautioned all Indian nationals travelling to the United States about the severe legal consequences of criminal behaviour. “Committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States won’t just cause you legal issues – it could lead to your visa being revoked and make you ineligible for future US visas,” the advisory stated.
Embarrassing much! 🤢
Indian woman Anaya Avlani visiting the US is facing felony charges for allegedly shoplifting $1,300 (Rs1,11,617) worth of goods from a Target store in Illinois
She spent nearly 7 hours inside the store, wandering through aisles, glued to her phone before… pic.twitter.com/2SfTtjkjhH
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) July 16, 2025
The embassy further noted that criminal actions, regardless of conviction, may affect an individual’s immigration status. “Visa holders and applicants should be aware that US laws are strictly enforced, and involvement in any criminal activity can lead to arrest, prosecution, and removal proceedings,” the embassy added.
Though the woman’s identity has not been officially disclosed by authorities, the incident has gained traction on social media platforms, where many users have criticised the act and warned fellow Indians about adhering to local laws while abroad.