Pune Woman Studying In Chicago Duped Of Rs 11 Lakhs By Fraudulent Priest 

A 21-year-old woman from Pune, studying in the United States, has been defrauded of over Rs 18 lakhs by a fraudulent priest. The case was reported to Deccan Gymkhana Police Station, and a complaint has been filed against Siddharth Abhay Kumar Aamale, a resident of Kalewadi, Pimpri-Chinchwad. According to the police, the woman, who is currently studying in Chicago, was targeted by Aamale between November 2022 and April 2024. The accused gained her trust by offering online puja and other worship services, claiming they would resolve her household problems. He assured her that any money paid for these services would be returned after the puja.

The complainant, believing in Aamale’s promises, paid him Rs 11,83,000 online. However, she never received the promised refund. When the woman returned to India, Aamale continued his deceit by demanding additional money and even taking 54 grams of gold jewelry and Rs 2,83,000 in cash from her.

After realizing she had been cheated, the woman sought to recover her money. Aamale, however, threatened to morph her photos and circulate them on social media if she pursued legal action. Alarmed by these threats, the woman reported the fraud to the Deccan Gymkhana Police Station on August 20, 2024.

The police have registered a case against Aamale, who is now under investigation. This incident highlights the growing concern over online fraud and the need for vigilance in dealing with individuals promising solutions to personal problems.