A bizarre fraud racket built on superstition, deception, and technology has been exposed in Gujarat’s Vadodara, where a group of alleged con artists attempted to sell a so-called “miraculous Sulemani Black Stone” for ₹20 crore by claiming it could protect its owner from physical harm and render knives and blades ineffective. The scheme unraveled after the intended buyer grew suspicious and alerted authorities, leading to the arrest of three suspects.
Fake Miracle Claims
According to investigators, the case began when a local astrologer was approached by individuals claiming to possess an extremely rare and powerful black stone with extraordinary protective properties. The accused allegedly told the victim that anyone carrying the stone would be immune to physical attacks and safeguarded from financial losses and misfortune.
To support their claims, the suspects reportedly showed edited videos depicting individuals being struck with knives and blades without suffering injuries. Investigators believe the videos were manipulated using visual effects and editing techniques designed to create the illusion of supernatural powers. The group also allegedly arranged a live demonstration intended to convince the astrologer that the stone possessed genuine mystical abilities.
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Hostage Claim Triggers Police Action
Authorities say the suspects carefully crafted an elaborate narrative around the stone, presenting it as a highly valuable and rare object. During negotiations, they reportedly demanded ₹20 crore for the alleged artifact and pressured the victim to proceed with the purchase. However, the astrologer began to question the authenticity of the demonstrations and the claims being made.
As doubts grew, the proposed deal started to fall apart. Investigators allege that when the astrologer attempted to withdraw from the transaction and leave the meeting, the situation escalated dramatically. The accused allegedly confined the astrologer and one of his associates inside a hotel room and demanded ₹50,000 in exchange for their release.
According to the complaint, the victims were threatened and prevented from leaving. However, they eventually managed to escape and immediately informed the police about the incident. Their complaint triggered a swift investigation by local authorities.
Following the report, Kapurai police launched an operation and gathered technical and intelligence inputs regarding the suspects. Based on the evidence collected, officers moved quickly and arrested three individuals believed to be involved in the scheme. Investigators are now examining their backgrounds, digital devices, and financial transactions to determine whether similar frauds were carried out elsewhere.
Digital Evidence Under Probe
Police officials believe the case may represent more than a single attempted scam. Investigators are exploring the possibility that the accused targeted other victims using comparable claims involving supernatural objects, miracle cures, or supposedly magical artifacts. Authorities are also analyzing mobile phones, electronic records, videos, and communication data recovered during the investigation.
Experts note that fraudsters increasingly combine traditional superstition with modern technology to make deceptive claims appear credible. Professionally edited videos, staged demonstrations, and psychological manipulation can sometimes persuade even educated individuals to trust extraordinary promises. Such schemes often exploit fear, greed, faith, or the desire for quick gains.
The case has also highlighted how fraud can quickly escalate into more serious criminal offences. What began as an alleged attempt to sell a fictitious miraculous object reportedly evolved into unlawful confinement and ransom demands when the suspects feared their plan was failing.
Investigators continue to search for additional individuals who may have assisted in promoting, staging, or financing the operation. Police expect that digital evidence, financial records, and ongoing interrogations will help uncover the full extent of the network and identify any additional victims.
Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious of individuals claiming to possess supernatural objects, miraculous powers, or guaranteed protection from harm. They advise citizens to verify extraordinary claims independently and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies without delay.
