Conman Poses as Sadhu and Cheats Real Estate Agent of Rs 2.82 Lakh in Mumbai

A conman dressed as a sadhu cheated a real estate agent of Rs 2.82 lakh in his Mumbai office. The suspect used religious props and sleight-of-hand techniques to distract and deceive the agent.

ConmanReal EstateSadhuMumbaiPoliceReal Estate NewsNov 14, 2025

Conman Poses as Sadhu and Cheats Real Estate Agent of Rs 2.82 Lakh in Mumbai
Real Estate News:According to the police, the incident occurred in the Prabhadevi area of Mumbai, where a 37-year-old real estate agent was targeted by a conman posing as a sadhu. The agent operates an estate agency from a shop located on Raja Bhau Desai Marg. Around 3:25 PM, the accused entered the agent's office dressed in saffron robes and carrying a copper kamandalu (a traditional water pot used by Hindu ascetics).

Dadar Police have launched a search for the conman, who allegedly used religious chants and blessings to gain the agent's trust. After receiving a small donation of Rs 200, the suspect produced a paper bundle containing reddish powder and a gemstone. He asked the agent to place his gold ring inside the bundle for “good luck”. The agent, momentarily confused, complied with the request.

When the agent opened the bundle moments later, he found that the ring and gemstone, valued at Rs 2.82 lakh, had been replaced with worthless items. The religious articles used to gain his trust had also disappeared. Realizing he had been cheated, the agent approached the Dadar Police, and a case was registered under Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

The police have circulated the suspect’s description to track him down. The suspect is described as a dark-complexioned man, around 50 years old, with long hair, a beard, and saffron clothing. He was also wearing a shawl and carrying a kamandalu. Police are scanning CCTV footage from the area to identify and locate the suspect.

Police believe the accused is likely a habitual cheat who targets shop-owners during low-footfall hours using religious props and sleight-of-hand techniques. The police are urging other shop-owners and residents to be cautious and report any suspicious activities immediately.

The incident highlights the importance of vigilance and skepticism, especially when dealing with unfamiliar individuals, even if they appear to be religious figures. The police are working diligently to apprehend the suspect and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the victim of the conman?

The victim was a 37-year-old real estate agent operating an office in Prabhadevi, Mumbai.

What did the conman take from the agent?

The conman took a gold ring and a gemstone, valued at Rs 2.82 lakh, using a paper bundle and sleight-of-hand techniques.

How did the conman gain the agent's trust?

The conman dressed as a sadhu, chanted religious verses, and asked for a small donation. He then used a paper bundle and religious props to distract the agent.

What is the police doing to catch the suspect?

The police have circulated the suspect’s description and are scanning CCTV footage from the area to identify and locate him.

What is the advice for shop-owners and residents?

Shop-owners and residents are advised to be cautious and report any suspicious activities immediately to the police.