Police in Trichy have registered a formal case against a self-styled shaman priest and his two associates. The trio stands accused of cheating a local woman out of a staggering Rs 16 lakh. The alleged fraud took place back in 2019, with promises to break powerful witchcraft curses and sell a piece of land.
Victim Seeks Help for Family Troubles
The victim, identified as 54-year-old R Banureka, resides in Melakalkondarkottai, Trichy. In July 2019, she approached the shaman, Rajali Periyasamy, in Srirangam. Banureka was seeking help to resolve serious and persistent issues within her family.
Shaman Spins a Tale of Witchcraft and Danger
Rajali Periyasamy made a shocking claim to the distressed woman. He asserted that her husband, Raveendran, faced a grave and immediate threat to his life. According to the shaman, this mortal danger was caused by powerful witchcraft. Periyasamy offered a solution, assuring Banureka that special, potent rituals could completely eliminate this supernatural threat.
The Elaborate Scheme Unfolds
The shaman did not stop at offering ritualistic help. He then persuaded Banureka to make what he called an 'auspicious expenditure' to counter the alleged sorcery. Furthermore, he convinced her to purchase a plot of land he supposedly owned in Trichy city itself. For this combined promise of spiritual relief and property, he demanded a total of Rs 16 lakh.
Trusting his solemn assurances, Banureka handed over the entire amount in cash. She believed she was securing her family's safety and future with the land deal.
Years Pass, Promises Broken
However, Rajali Periyasamy never transferred the promised plot of land to Banureka. Several years passed with no action from the shaman. The victim, realizing she had been thoroughly deceived, finally approached the police to file a formal complaint.
From CSR to Formal FIR
Initially, authorities only made an entry in the community service register (CSR). After a proper investigation, the Srirangam crime police took decisive action. On Saturday, they formally registered a case under sections 420 (cheating) and 506(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code.
The case names three individuals: the main accused, Rajali Periyasamy, along with his associates Thangam and Suresh. Police sources confirm the matter remains under active investigation. As of now, the accused persons are yet to be arrested.
This incident serves as a stark reminder to the public about fraudulent schemes that exploit fear and superstition for financial gain.
