Crypto Fraud: Pune doctor duped of Rs 1.71 crore, Jaipur-based doctor under investigation

Pune: Fraudsters in the country have expanded their reach, now targeting even reputed medical professionals. A renowned Pune-based skin specialist, the founder of a Skin Clinic in Baner, and his friend were duped of ₹1.71 crore by a Jaipur-based doctor under the pretext of cryptocurrency investments. In response, the accused has been booked in a fraud case.

When confronted about the missing funds, the accused allegedly issued death threats, further escalating the conflict. Police investigations have also revealed that the accused has several pending extortion and rape cases in Jaipur.

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The complainant, a 54-year-old doctor from Baner, runs a skin clinic and holds six registered patents. He first met the accused in 2019 through a mutual friend in Jaipur, where both had studied at SMS Medical College. Over time, they developed a close friendship, with the accused frequently visiting Pune.

Between 2022 and 2024, the Jaipur doctor sought skin tightening and anti-ageing treatments from the complainant. During this period, he introduced cryptocurrency investments as a lucrative opportunity, convincing the Pune doctor to invest Rs 10 lakh in August 2022. The accused later claimed that the amount had grown to Rs 25 lakh, convincing him to invest more.

Encouraged by these assurances, the complainant introduced his friend to the accused. Between September 1, 2024, and the following months, the complainant's friend invested Rs 1.49 crore.

As per The Bridge Chronicle, after the accused skin treatments were completed, the complainant presented a medical bill of Rs 2 lakh. However, when the complainant asked the accused to settle the bill, he claimed to have reinvested the money in cryptocurrency and promised to return the entire amount soon.

As repeated demands for repayment did not result in an outcome, the accused allegedly turned aggressive. He refused to return the money allegedly issued death threats, and verbally abused him.

He allegedly said, "I will not return your or your friend’s money. Do whatever you want." Furthermore, he referenced another alleged victim stating, "You saw what happened to him, and I will do the same to you."

Later, the complainant registered a case at Chatuhshrungi Police Station under various sections of fraud and criminal intimidation. The investigation is currently being led by Assistant Police Inspector Sachin Karande.

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