Ahmedabad Senior Citizen Falls Victim to Elaborate Rs 1 Lakh Extortion Scam
In a distressing incident in Ahmedabad, an 84-year-old executive director of a private firm was allegedly cheated of Rs 1 lakh by two unidentified men who orchestrated a fake accident scenario. The elderly resident of Ambawadi filed a complaint with the Vasna police, detailing how he was targeted while driving to his office in Usmanpura on Wednesday morning.
How the Fake Accident Unfolded
According to the police report, the incident occurred around 11 am near a school opposite NABARD Bank in Usmanpura. A scooter rider abruptly stopped the senior citizen's car, accusing him of hitting the scooter and causing his employer to fall and sustain a shoulder fracture. Despite the elderly man denying any collision, the accused insisted he accompany them to resolve the matter.
The scam escalated as the victim was taken to multiple locations under false pretenses:
- First, he was driven near Sardar Patel Society, where another man claimed to have suffered a shoulder injury.
- Next, he was taken to Delhi Darwaja under the guise of consulting a bone-setter.
- Finally, he was brought to Asarwa Civil Hospital after being told the injury was severe.
Extortion Threats and Financial Loss
At the hospital, one of the accused falsely informed the victim that doctors had recommended surgery, with treatment costs amounting to Rs 1.70 lakh. When the senior citizen expressed inability to arrange the funds immediately, the two men allegedly threatened him, demanding the money be paid the same day.
Frightened by the threats, the victim went to his bank branch in Nehrunagar, withdrew Rs 1 lakh in cash, and handed it over to one of the accused. He also issued a cheque for Rs 70,000 but later stopped payment upon suspecting fraud.
Police Action and Ongoing Investigation
The Vasna police have registered a case of extortion and criminal conspiracy against the two unidentified persons. Authorities are investigating the incident, which highlights vulnerabilities faced by senior citizens in urban areas. This case serves as a stark reminder for the public to remain vigilant against such elaborate scams.
Residents are advised to report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement and verify claims before making payments in similar situations.
