In a shocking case of online deception and impersonation, Telangana Police have arrested a mason for allegedly posing as both a doctor and an IPS trainee to cheat a woman and a minor girl of nearly ₹12 lakh and 20 grams of gold.
The accused, identified as Uppari Durgesh from Ellampally in Medak district, allegedly created fake social media identities and lured the victims by promising marriage.
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Used Fake Identities to Trap Victims
According to police, Durgesh operated under the names Sadhvik Reddy and Rithvik Reddy on Instagram, where he befriended a 17-year-old girl from Eklas village and a woman identified as Kondi Swathi.
Investigators said he gradually gained their trust through regular conversations before allegedly starting to ask for money under fabricated pretexts.
Claimed to Be Undergoing IPS Training
Police said Durgesh told Kondi Swathi that he was undergoing IPS training in Chhattisgarh and promised to marry her once his training was completed.
After winning her confidence, he allegedly claimed to be in urgent need of money and convinced her to transfer ₹5 lakh through Google Pay.
He also reportedly took 10 grams of gold earrings from her.
Minor Duped With Fake Doctor Story
In a separate scam involving the 17-year-old victim, Durgesh allegedly claimed that he had completed MBBS and would marry her after completing his “training.”
He later told her that he had bought a diamond ring for her but needed ₹7 lakh to clear tax payments on it.
Believing his story, the minor allegedly transferred the amount and handed over another 10 grams of gold.
Contact Broken After Fraud
After collecting the money and jewellery from both victims, Durgesh allegedly severed all contact and deleted his Instagram accounts.
Police said the victims waited for nearly a year before realising they had been cheated.
The matter came to light after they informed their families, who subsequently lodged a complaint with the police on Thursday night.
Police Warn Against Online Impersonation Frauds
The case has once again highlighted the growing trend of social media-based relationship frauds, where imposters exploit emotional trust for financial gain.
Police have urged citizens, especially young users, to verify identities before entering into online relationships or financial dealings.
Investigations are underway to determine whether the accused targeted more victims using similar fake profiles.
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