In Mehsana, Gujarat, an elderly man has fallen victim to a scam involving two agents who promised to send him to America. The man, living in the Krunal Residency of Mehsana city, was persuaded by the agents to pay ₹25.5 lakh with the assurance of a visa and travel arrangements. The agents, identified as Rakesh Patel and Harshad Oza, collected the money but failed to provide the promised services. When the man realised he had been cheated, he filed a complaint at the B Division police station in Mehsana.
This incident is part of a troubling trend of scams targeting elderly individuals in the region. The police have noted an increase in such cases, where fraudsters exploit the dreams of elderly citizens wishing to travel abroad. Just recently, another case emerged in which a police officer’s wife was deceived for ₹62 lakh in a similar scheme.
In that case, the fraudsters, operating under the guise of travel consultants, promised to provide travel tickets and visas but instead asked for more money without delivering any results. This has raised alarm among local law enforcement, prompting swift investigations into these scams.
The elderly man’s complaint highlights the need for more awareness and protection for vulnerable populations against such deceitful practices. Local officials are urging citizens to be cautious when dealing with unknown agents and to verify the legitimacy of any travel offers.
As the police proceed with the investigation of the two agents, they are also looking into other recent scams reported in the area. In one instance, a farmer was cheated out of ₹84,000 by two men who approached him under the pretext of asking for directions. These incidents indicate a growing trend of fraud that preys on the unsuspecting and vulnerable, particularly the elderly.
Authorities are reinforcing their commitment to cracking down on such scams. They are encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activity immediately. They are also working on educational campaigns to inform the public about the risks associated with dealing with unverified agents.
The Mehsana police have reported that similar scams have been on the rise, with many victims reluctant to come forward due to embarrassment or fear. To combat this, local community leaders are being engaged to help spread awareness and provide guidance to those who may be targeted.
As this situation unfolds, the public is advised to remain vigilant and to seek help if they encounter suspicious offers or individuals. The police are taking these matters seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, especially the elderly who may be more susceptible to such scams.
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