Gonda: A well-organized gang involved in cheating people in the name of black magic and religious rituals has been busted in Uttar Pradesh. The accused allegedly lured victims into a 42-day “special ritual” and then escaped with gold, silver, and cash from their homes. Police have arrested five members of the gang and recovered ₹1.99 lakh in cash, a large quantity of gold and silver ornaments, fake identity documents, and other incriminating materials.
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Pamphlets Used to Trap Victims
According to police investigations, the gang operated in a highly structured manner. Initially, pamphlets and printed advertisements were distributed promoting so-called spiritual solutions and ritual-based remedies for personal problems. People who responded were then targeted and convinced to undergo “special house rituals” designed to gain their trust.
During these rituals, the accused would ask families to place their gold and silver ornaments inside a metal box or container, claiming it was part of the religious process. At a crucial moment, the main accused, posing as a priest, would allegedly create fear by displaying a snake, causing panic among family members. Taking advantage of the situation, the gang members would steal the valuables and flee from the scene.
The investigation revealed that the gang had targeted several areas across Gonda and Bahraich districts, including Dadua Bazaar, Jankinagar, Manakapur, and Dargah Sharif. Multiple cases had already been registered against the accused in different police stations prior to this operation.
Fake Rituals Used to Steal Valuables
The case came to light after a victim filed a complaint stating that he was cheated of approximately 750 grams of gold, 750 grams of silver, and ₹2 lakh under the pretext of a 42-day ritual. The victim reported that the accused made the entire process appear highly authentic, leaving no suspicion during the rituals.
Police said the accused used fake Hindu identities and names to gain trust, while investigations revealed that all of them belonged to the same community and deliberately concealed their identity to mislead victims. The gang reportedly used astrology, Vastu consultation, and spiritual remedy claims to build credibility and distribute promotional pamphlets.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Namshar, Hasrat Ali, Imran, Insad, and Tohid. During the operation, police recovered 25 mobile phones, cheque books, bank documents, fake voter ID cards, chargers, and a vehicle with a fake number plate.
Wider Fraud Network Under Probe
During interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted that they trapped victims by promising rituals lasting between 21 and 42 days, keeping them emotionally and psychologically engaged so that they would not suspect fraud. During this period, valuables were systematically taken away in small steps.
In another reported case, a family was asked to lock away 250 grams of gold, 250 grams of silver, and other metals in a room as part of a “purification ritual.” The accused later used excuses and fled with the valuables.
Police officials stated that the gang was active across multiple districts and frequently changed locations to avoid detection. Preliminary findings also suggest that the accused were involved in several similar cases registered earlier in different regions.
