Viral Video: Chilling SCAM on Mumbai-Pune Highway Near Lonavala; Fake Recovery Agents Corner Mumbai Man Claiming ₹10 Lakh Dues

PUNE – A chilling encounter on the Mumbai-Pune highway has triggered a widespread alert for motorists after a Mumbai-based driver was cornered by individuals posing as bank recovery agents. The incident, which took place near Lonavala, highlights a sophisticated new “loan default” scam designed to intimidate drivers into stopping in isolated areas.

The victim, who recently purchased a pre-owned Hyundai Verna through a verified dealership, reported that the ordeal began while he was traveling toward Pune on March 21. According to his account, two unidentified men on a motorcycle began tailing his vehicle for several kilometers, matching his speed and signaling him to pull over.

The situation escalated when the bikers overtook the car and forced it to a halt under a flyover on a deserted stretch of the road.

The “₹10 Lakh Loan” Trap

Once the vehicle was stopped, the men approached the driver, claiming the car had an outstanding loan of ₹10 lakh with ICICI Bank. They demanded the driver roll down his windows and “cooperate” with their investigation.

Despite the pressure, the driver, who had completed all legal transfers and RTO formalities in December 2025, sensed a scam. He refused to step out of the vehicle and only partially lowered his window.

“The tone changed the moment I reached for my phone,” the driver shared in a viral social media post detailing the event. Sensing the driver was contacting the police, the suspects quickly pivoted their story, questioning how the car’s transfer was processed without an NOC, before fleeing the scene entirely.

Beware of these people near Mapro [OC]
by u/daddyaj007 in pune

Expert Advice for Motorists

Subsequent checks confirmed that the vehicle had no pending dues or liens. Security experts and local authorities are now warning citizens that this is likely a tactic used by criminals to hijack vehicles or extort “settlement” money from unsuspecting buyers of second-hand cars.

To stay safe on the highway, PuneNow recommends the following:

• Keep Moving: If followed by suspicious individuals, do not stop in isolated areas. Drive to the nearest petrol pump, toll plaza, or police station.
• Stay Inside: If forced to stop, lock all doors and keep windows rolled up.
• Call for Help: Immediately dial 112 or the highway helpline.
• Verify Officially: Banks and recovery agents are legally required to follow a specific protocol and provide identification. Never entertain financial claims on the roadside.

As the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and surrounding NH4 stretches see high traffic, commuters are urged to remain vigilant against such predatory tactics.