A 45-year-old woman doctor from Bengaluru was allegedly cheated of ₹22.25 lakh by a man posing as a Germany-based ophthalmologist on a matrimonial platform, according to reports by The Hindu and The Times of India.
As reported by The Hindu, the accused identified himself as Dr. Ganesh Barman, claiming to be an ophthalmologist working in Germany. Police have registered a case of cheating and initiated an investigation.
According to The Hindu, the complainant connected with the accused through a matrimonial website. The man introduced himself as a ophthalmologist based in Berlin, Germany and expressed interest in marriage. He convinced the doctor that he is divorced and has a 7-year-old girl child. He reportedly said that he is moving back to India next year and planning to settle in Delhi.
Over time, he reportedly built trust through regular communication. He later informed the doctor that he has sent some people to start the work of the eye clinic in Delhi, and the work is going on. Afterwards he claimed his international bank account has become nonfunctional and cannot transfer funds to the helpers and sought the help of the Bengaluru doctor.
The victim transferred the money from her Axis bank account and also sought her brother in law's help to transfer more funds when requested for additional amount.
Between January 9th and 26th, the total amount transferred reached ₹22.25 lakh before the victim realized she had been deceived and approached the police.
See also: Bengaluru Woman Duped by Fake Belgian Doctor in Valentine Gift Scam
Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act pertaining to cheating and cyber fraud.
Investigators are examining bank transaction records, call data, and digital communication trails to trace the accused and any associates involved in the scheme.
Authorities have reiterated public advisories regarding matrimonial and online relationship scams, particularly those involving individuals claiming to work overseas.
Cybercrime officials note that matrimonial fraud schemes often follow a similar pattern:
Creation of fake professional profiles (often doctors or engineers)
Claiming to be based abroad (commonly Europe or the UK)
Rapid emotional engagement and discussion of marriage
Fabricated stories involving customs clearance, medical emergencies, or financial blocks
Requests for urgent money transfers
Fraudsters frequently exploit professional credibility to gain trust.
Reports indicate that educated professionals, including doctors, are increasingly being targeted in online scams due to perceived financial stability and trust in verified platforms.
(Rh)