Worli Senior Citizen Extorted of ₹2 Crore in 2-Year 'Friendly' Dinner Scam
The Worli police in Mumbai have launched an intensive manhunt for a group of five to six individuals who allegedly extorted a staggering sum of ₹2 crore from a vulnerable 70-year-old man over a prolonged two-year period. The elderly victim, who lives alone in Worli, was systematically targeted and threatened with defamation and physical assault if he failed to comply with the gang's escalating monetary demands.
How a Seemingly Innocent Friendship Turned Sinister
According to detailed police reports, the nightmare began in January 2024 when one of the accused first approached the elderly man. Posing as a friendly acquaintance, the individual gradually gained the victim's trust through repeated social interactions. The gang members, including a woman who was present during several meetings, frequently invited the senior citizen for lunch or dinner, creating a facade of camaraderie.
The initial pretext involved a request for financial assistance to cover medical treatment expenses for the accused's father. However, this seemingly benign request quickly transformed into a systematic extortion scheme once the perpetrators realized their target was both financially well-off and living without family support.
Two Years of Escalating Threats and Financial Drain
Over the subsequent twenty-four months, the gang methodically escalated their threats, warning the elderly man that they would publicly defame him or physically assault him if he refused their demands. The victim was coerced into paying the ₹2 crore in multiple instalments, each payment extracted under duress as the criminals alternated between threats to his reputation and warnings about his personal safety.
A senior police officer involved in the investigation revealed the chilling details: "Once the victim's substantial savings were completely exhausted, the accused heartlessly demanded an additional ₹1 crore. They warned him of severe assault if he failed to produce this further payment. Left with no financial resources and under unbearable mental stress, the victim was reportedly contemplating ending his life."
The Breaking Point and Police Intervention
The distraught senior citizen finally confided in an acquaintance about the harrowing series of events he had endured. This trusted friend immediately advised him to approach the authorities for protection and justice. Following this crucial advice, the victim filed a formal complaint at the Worli police station on Thursday.
Police officials have registered a comprehensive case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with specific charges including extortion. The investigation is currently focused on identifying and apprehending the entire gang of five to six unidentified individuals who orchestrated this elaborate financial and psychological exploitation.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Concerns
This case highlights significant concerns about the safety of elderly citizens living alone in metropolitan areas. The Mumbai police have emphasized their commitment to pursuing all leads and bringing the perpetrators to justice. The investigation continues as authorities examine financial transactions, witness statements, and digital evidence to build a strong case against the accused.
Community safety advocates are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior targeting vulnerable individuals. The police have also advised senior citizens to exercise caution when forming new relationships and to consult trusted family members or authorities before making significant financial decisions under pressure.
