Conman Poses as Sadhu, Cheats Real Estate Agent of Rs 2.82 Lakh in Mumbai
A conman dressed as a sadhu tricked a real estate agent in Mumbai, stealing jewellery worth Rs 2.82 lakh. The police are now on the hunt for the suspect.
ConmanSadhuReal EstateMumbaiTheftReal Estate MaharashtraNov 14, 2025
According to Mumbai Police, the complainant, who operates an estate agency from a shop located on Raja Bhau Desai Marg in Prabhadevi, was alone in his cabin around 3:25 pm when the accused entered, dressed in saffron robes and carrying a copper kamandalu (water pot). The suspect, believed to be around 50 years old, chanted religious verses, blessed the complainant, and asked for a small donation.
After the complainant gave him Rs 200, the accused produced a paper bundle containing reddish powder and a gemstone. He asked the complainant to place his gold ring inside the bundle for 'good luck'. The complainant felt momentarily confused and complied. The accused then handed back the bundle and left.
When the complainant opened it moments later, the ring and gemstone, together valued at Rs 2.82 lakh, had been replaced with worthless items, and the religious articles used to gain his trust had disappeared. Realising he had been cheated, he approached Dadar Police, following which 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. 'He was a dark-complexioned man, around 50 years old, with long hair, beard, saffron clothing, shawl, and a kamandalu. We are scanning the CCTV footage from the area,' an officer said. Police added that the accused is likely a habitual cheat who targets shop-owners during low-footfall hours using religious props and sleight-of-hand techniques.
The incident highlights the need for increased vigilance, especially during low-traffic hours when shop-owners might be more vulnerable to such scams. The police have urged other victims to come forward if they have encountered a similar situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the real estate office in Prabhadevi?
A conman dressed as a sadhu entered the office, distracted the real estate agent, and stole jewellery worth Rs 2.82 lakh.
Who is the suspect, and what did he look like?
The suspect is a dark-complexioned man, around 50 years old, with long hair, a beard, saffron clothing, a shawl, and a copper kamandalu.
What did the conman do to distract the real estate agent?
The conman chanted religious verses, blessed the agent, and asked for a small donation. He then produced a paper bundle containing reddish powder and a gemstone, asking the agent to place his gold ring inside for 'good luck'.
What did the real estate agent do after realizing he was cheated?
The real estate agent approached Dadar Police, and a case was registered under Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
What are the police doing to catch the suspect?
The police have circulated the suspect's description and are scanning CCTV footage from the area. They believe the suspect is a habitual cheat who targets shop-owners during low-footfall hours.
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