Pune Software Engineer Falls Victim to Rs 42.64 Lakh ISRO Scientist Impersonation Scam
In a shocking case of cyber fraud and impersonation, the Wakad police in Pune have registered a formal case against a man from Alibaug in Raigad district. The accused allegedly duped a 28-year-old software engineer of a staggering Rs 42.64 lakh by posing as a scientist from the prestigious Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
How the Elaborate Matrimonial Fraud Unfolded
According to Inspector Kishor Patil of the Wakad police, the complainant is a software engineer employed with a prominent IT firm located in Hinjewadi. The woman had registered her profile on a popular matrimonial website, where she encountered the accused. The fraudster created a fake profile under the name Jayesh Patil, falsely claiming to be an ISRO scientist.
The accused initiated contact with the woman and proposed marriage in November 2024. To build credibility, he even traveled to Wakad to meet her in person. After successfully gaining her trust through this personal interaction, he began requesting money under various pretexts.
Systematic Financial Exploitation Under False Pretenses
Inspector Patil detailed that the man concocted stories about purchasing land and property for their future life together post-marriage. Leveraging this emotional manipulation, he systematically extracted funds from the victim.
- The fraudulent transactions occurred between November 2024 and January 2025.
- The total amount siphoned off reached Rs 42.64 lakh.
- The scam was uncovered when the victim realized the man was not associated with ISRO.
- She subsequently filed an online complaint, prompting police intervention.
Police Action and Recovery Efforts
The Wakad police team, under the leadership of Inspector Kishor Patil, acted swiftly upon receiving the complaint. Their investigation led to the recovery of Rs 16.65 lakh from the total defrauded amount. However, Rs 27 lakh remains unaccounted for and efforts to trace these funds are ongoing.
Criminal History and Modus Operandi of the Accused
Further police investigations revealed that the accused, identified as Jayesh Patil alias Adarsh Mhatre (36) from Alibag, is a repeat offender. He was recently arrested by the Navi Mumbai police in a separate, similar cheating case filed by another engineer.
- The accused specifically targeted educated, professional women through matrimonial platforms.
- He used the illicitly obtained money to fund a lavish lifestyle.
- A significant portion of the funds was allegedly squandered in casinos across Goa.
Inspector Patil confirmed that the accused is currently in the custody of the Navi Mumbai police until March 4. The Wakad police intend to seek his custody from the court thereafter to proceed with their investigation. This case highlights the growing sophistication of online matrimonial frauds and the importance of thorough verification in digital interactions.
