Conman Poses as Sadhu to Cheat Real Estate Agent of Rs 2.82 Lakh in Mumbai

According to the police, a conman posing as a sadhu has cheated a 37-year-old real estate agent of Rs 2.82 lakh in Mumbai. The incident took place in the agent's office located on Raja Bhau Desai Marg in Prabhadevi around 3.25 pm on Thursday.

The Dadar Police have launched a search for the conman, who allegedly entered the agent's office 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 agent, and asked for a small donation. After the agent gave him Rs 200, the conman produced a paper bundle containing reddish powder and a gemstone.

The conman asked the agent to place his gold ring inside the bundle for “good luck.” The agent, feeling momentarily confused, complied. The conman then handed back the bundle and left. When the agent opened it 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.

“He was a dark-complexioned man, around 50 years old, with long hair, a beard, saffron clothing, a shawl, and a kamandalu. We are scanning the CCTV footage from the area,” an officer said. The 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.