A homeopath from Surat has allegedly been cheated of Rs 9.17 lakh by a patient who promised him a 5% monthly return on investment in a gaming application. The victim, Vijay Kothari, 42, runs Krishna Clinic in the Varachha area and holds a BHMS degree. According to the police complaint, the accused, Lalit Gangani, befriended Kothari during visits to his clinic over the past three years.
How the scam unfolded
In August 2025, Gangani visited Kothari's home and proposed an investment opportunity in a gaming app called 'All Panel'. He claimed to have earned substantial returns and offered Kothari a 5% monthly profit. Trusting Gangani, Kothari initially transferred Rs 47,500 to a specified bank account. He later added Rs 19,000 more. Encouraged by Gangani's persistent calls, Kothari made further investments of Rs 1.01 lakh, Rs 7.29 lakh, and Rs 20,000 between August 2025 and April 2026, totaling Rs 9.17 lakh.
Threats and refusal to pay
When Kothari requested his principal amount along with the promised returns, Gangani began making excuses. As Kothari persisted, Gangani allegedly threatened him and flatly refused to return the money. Feeling cheated and threatened, Kothari approached the Amroli police station and filed a formal complaint.
Police investigation underway
The Amroli police have registered a case against Lalit Gangani under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for cheating and criminal intimidation. An investigation is currently underway to trace the accused and recover the defrauded amount. Authorities have warned the public to be cautious of such investment schemes that promise unusually high returns.
