In a disturbing case of cyber fraud, a 22-year-old woman from Sion, Mumbai, was allegedly defrauded of ₹15.93 lakh by fraudsters posing as spiritual healers claiming powers through ‘jinns’ and tantric rituals. The Mumbai Cyber Cell has registered a case and initiated an investigation.
Instagram-to-WhatsApp Deception
According to reports, the scam began in 2023 when the victim came across an Instagram post titled “Powerful Obsession Healer.” Clicking the link redirected her to WhatsApp, where she began communicating with individuals identifying themselves as “Wahid” and “Sahil.” The accused reportedly gained her trust by promising solutions to personal and career-related problems and later persuaded her to participate in alleged tantric rituals.
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Escalating Ritual Payments
The fraudsters claimed possession of a ‘jinn’ capable of fulfilling her desires, including financial success and personal happiness. Initial payments of ₹25,000 gradually escalated as the accused repeatedly demanded more money under the pretext of incomplete rituals, removal of negative energy, or threats that the ‘jinn’ was angry.
Investigators revealed that the victim transferred funds into multiple bank accounts under names including Sumra Mohammed, Mohsin Salim, and Gulnaz, indicating possible links to a larger organized cybercrime network. Alarmingly, the victim even sold her family’s gold to meet the fraudulent demands. Despite repeated payments, no results were delivered.
After nearly two and a half years, realizing the deception, the woman contacted the cyber crime helpline and lodged a formal complaint. The Mumbai Cyber Cell is now tracing social media accounts, phone numbers, and banking transactions linked to the accused.
Superstition-Based Racket Suspected
Police officials suspect the case may be part of a coordinated racket targeting vulnerable individuals via social media, exploiting superstition and emotional manipulation. Citizens have been warned to avoid engaging with unknown individuals offering supernatural or guaranteed solutions online.
Experts note that cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging human emotions and beliefs to extract large sums from victims. “These scams exploit human emotions and trust, making social engineering a powerful tool for cyber fraudsters,” said a cybersecurity analyst.
Public Awareness Urged
The case highlights the growing sophistication of online frauds and the urgent need for awareness among social media users, particularly young adults who may be more susceptible to manipulative tactics.
Authorities have urged anyone approached with similar claims to immediately report the matter to local cyber crime cells and avoid transferring funds without verification.
The Mumbai Cyber Cell continues its investigation and is coordinating with banks and social media platforms to identify the perpetrators and prevent further incidents.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
