Second Accused Arrested in Mumbai Taxi Scam Targeting US Tourist
In a significant development in a high-profile tourist scam case, the Sahar Police in Mumbai have arrested Toufique Shaikh, aged 39, as the second accused. This arrest follows an incident where a US woman was allegedly cheated of 200 US dollars (approximately Rs 18,000) for a mere 400-meter taxi ride to a hotel on January 12.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Police officials stated that Shaikh aided the primary accused, cab driver Deshraj Yadav, who was arrested earlier. Shaikh was apprehended on Wednesday upon his return to Mumbai after fleeing to Uttar Pradesh. His arrest has shed light on a pattern of criminal behavior, revealing that he had committed three similar offences in the past—two registered at the Sahar Police Station and one at the Airport Police Station. In each of these cases, his accomplice was different, indicating a modus operandi of collaborating with various partners.
Currently, Shaikh is in police custody until February 6, while Yadav is in judicial custody. The investigation into this scam has been meticulous, leveraging advanced technological tools to track down the perpetrators.
Background of the Scam and Earlier Arrest
Earlier, on January 28, police arrested 50-year-old cab driver Deshraj Yadav for allegedly fleecing the US national. The arrest was made possible by using an OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence) investigation tool, known for providing real-time data and unmatched accuracy. This platform enabled authorities to trace Yadav efficiently, highlighting the growing role of digital forensics in modern policing.
During questioning, Yadav confessed to the crime. He admitted that, along with his accomplice Shaikh, they first took the woman to a wrong hotel after a 20-minute ride before leaving her at her original destination. This deceptive tactic was designed to confuse and exploit the tourist, leading to the exorbitant charge.
Profiles of the Accused and Ongoing Efforts
Both accused are residents of Sahar Village and work as taxi drivers, which may have facilitated their access to potential victims. Shaikh hails from the Kurla locality and was described as Yadav's partner in this crime. Police had been actively searching for him following Yadav's arrest, and his capture marks a crucial step in bringing all involved to justice.
In related developments, authorities are making efforts to convince the US woman to file a written complaint via mail or video call. This step is essential to ensure that the case stands strong in court during the trial, as formal complaints are critical for legal proceedings. The police are emphasizing the importance of victim cooperation to secure convictions and deter future scams.
This case underscores the challenges faced by tourists in urban centers and the proactive measures taken by law enforcement to combat such frauds. The use of OSINT tools in this investigation demonstrates a commitment to leveraging technology for public safety, setting a precedent for handling similar cases in the future.
