Nadiad (Gujarat): A case of fraud involving fake sadhus has come to light in Nadiad, Gujarat, where elderly woman was allegedly cheated of gold jewellery worth more than ₹1.30 lakh. The accused used religious sentiments and superstition to gain the woman’s confidence and took away her ornaments on the pretext of making them “pure” before fleeing from the spot in a car.
The incident took place in the Manjipura Ring Road area of Nadiad. According to police, a 75-year-old woman, a resident of Shublaxmi Society on Kapadvanj Road, was travelling with her brother-in-law to visit her son’s house. During the journey, a car driver stopped them and asked for directions to the Bhutnath Temple. After the woman showed him the way, a person dressed as a sadhu sitting inside the car called her closer to receive blessings.
The accused, who was sitting beside the driver, was dressed like a religious saint and had ash applied all over his body. He allegedly attempted to gain the woman’s trust by engaging her and her brother-in-law in conversation. The accused also handed them ₹500 notes and claimed that prosperity would enter their home and that they were extremely fortunate.
After gaining their confidence, the accused allegedly told the woman that he could perform a special ritual to “purify” her jewellery, which would bring happiness and good fortune to her family. Believing his claims, the woman removed her gold chain, mangalsutra, earrings, and ring and handed them over to him. The total weight of the jewellery was around two tolas, according to the complaint.
Immediately after receiving the ornaments, both accused persons allegedly got into the car and fled from the location. The woman realised that she had been cheated after some time and informed her family members about the incident. Following this, a complaint was lodged with the police.
A case of cheating has been registered at Nadiad Rural Police Station against the unidentified car driver and his accomplice. Police have started an investigation to identify and arrest the accused persons. As part of the probe, CCTV footage from the surrounding areas is being examined to trace the vehicle and track the movements of the suspects.
Police officials said that fraudsters involved in such crimes often target elderly people and women by using religious appearances, fake rituals, claims of miracles, or promises of blessings. Citizens have been advised not to hand over jewellery or valuable belongings to unknown persons on the basis of such claims and to immediately inform authorities about suspicious activities.
Investigators are also examining whether the accused persons have been involved in similar incidents in other areas. Police are analysing technical evidence, including CCTV footage and details related to the vehicle, to establish the identity of the suspects. Authorities are hopeful that further investigation will help trace and apprehend the accused.
