Former DIG Among Victims as Pune Sees Recent Surge in Financial Frauds Totaling ₹70 Lakh
Pune witnessed a spate of fraudulent activities with four separate cheating cases reported on Wednesday, resulting in collective losses of ₹70 lakh for the victims. Among them was an 80-year-old retired police officer, highlighting that even seasoned individuals are not immune to such scams.
Retired DIG Duped of ₹50 Lakh in Investment Fraud
Former Deputy Inspector General of Police Maruti Shankarrao Maheshgauri (80), a resident of Wakad, fell victim to an elaborate investment scam. The retired officer filed a complaint with Deccan police, accusing Rajeev Ashok Kendre (based in Dubai) and Harshal Ashok Kulkarni (from Kothrud) of luring him with promises of high returns. Between 2021 and 2023, they allegedly siphoned off ₹50 lakh from him. A case has been registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 420 (cheating), 407, and relevant sections of the Maharashtra Protection of Investors Deposit (MPID) Act.
Woman Loses ₹90,000 in ATM Card Scam
In another incident, a 49-year-old woman sought help from a stranger inside an SBI ATM in Sairpuram Society after her card got stuck. The man, pretending to assist her, manipulated her into revealing her PIN and withdrew ₹90,000 from her account. The Nanded City police registered an FIR on May 7 under BNS and IT Act provisions.
Rising Fraud Cases Raise Concerns
Two additional cheating cases were reported the same day, though details remain undisclosed. Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant, especially when dealing with financial transactions or unsolicited assistance in public spaces.
