Driver and Accomplice Target Vulnerable US Medical Tourist
In a shocking case of betrayal, Mumbai police have arrested two individuals, including a driver, for allegedly stealing diamond-studded gold jewellery and a wristwatch valued at approximately ₹26 lakh from an American citizen undergoing medical treatment in the city. The incident occurred at an upscale hotel in South Mumbai's Colaba area, exposing how criminals are preying on vulnerable foreign patients seeking affordable healthcare in India.
The Calculated Conspiracy Unfolds
The victim, a 48-year-old man from West Virginia who has been in Mumbai since June for treatment of Parkinson's disease, had hired Kiran Rajesh Thakur (55) as his driver through a mutual acquaintance. Thakur, who hails from Vile Parle, was responsible for transporting the patient to and from medical appointments. On November 8, when the American expressed interest in shopping for clothes and perfume, Thakur introduced him to Hussein Hamid Sayyad (35), presenting him as a reliable local guide.
For three consecutive days beginning November 8, the unsuspecting patient went shopping with Hussein, developing what appeared to be a friendly relationship. The situation took a criminal turn on November 10 when the duo returned to the victim's hotel room after purchasing three watches. Around 2 PM, the patient, feeling unwell due to his medical condition, decided to take a nap. When he woke up an hour later, Hussein had disappeared along with precious items from the room.
The Stolen Items and Investigation Breakthrough
The stolen property included a gold chain and diamond-studded gold bracelet worth ₹25 lakh, along with a watch with a green strap valued at ₹1 lakh. After conducting a thorough search of his room, the victim immediately suspected Hussein and approached the Colaba Police Station to file an official complaint.
During the investigation, police uncovered that Hussein Hamid Sayyad, a Colaba resident with previous theft and assault cases, had conspired with driver Kiran Rajesh Thakur to execute the robbery. When police detained Hussein, he was boldly wearing the stolen watch worth ₹1 lakh, which was promptly recovered. However, the diamond jewellery worth ₹25 lakh remains missing as of current reports.
Both accused were arrested on Sunday and produced before a local court, which has remanded them in police custody until November 20 for further investigation and recovery of the missing jewellery.
Broader Implications for Medical Tourism
This incident highlights significant security concerns for foreign patients visiting India for medical treatment, particularly those with serious health conditions like Parkinson's disease who may be more vulnerable to exploitation. India's medical tourism industry, which attracts thousands of international patients annually due to affordable treatment costs, could face challenges if such security issues persist.
Police officials have advised foreign visitors, especially those undergoing medical treatment, to verify the credentials of local helpers and maintain proper security for their valuables. The investigation continues as authorities work to recover the remaining stolen jewellery and determine if the accused have targeted other medical tourists in similar fashion.
