Doctor Duped of ₹17 Crore by Fake Dubai E-Cigarette Distributors

Thiruvananthapuram: The Fort police have launched an investigation following allegations that a 55-year-old doctor from Sreevaraham was defrauded of Rs 17 crore by two individuals who promised him a distribution license for a Dubai-based e-cigarette manufacturing company. The case was filed against Abu Thahir, 40, from Vadakkanchery in Thrissur, and Shihabudeen, 60, from Pothencode.

The two suspects reportedly introduced themselves as directors of a “facilitating company” claimed to be owned by a Dubai resident. However, during the investigation, authorities discovered that the supposed owner was, in fact, a sponsor of the firm. The two suspects reportedly introduced themselves as directors of a “facilitating company” claimed to be owned by a Dubai resident. Trusting their claims, he began transferring money to them in installments between June and December 2020, believing it was a step toward securing the promised license.

Despite his significant financial investment, the victim received nothing in return. Over time, it became apparent that the accused had misused the money, amassing properties worth crores of rupees in India. In 2022, they offered him a property in India as compensation for the lost funds, but this arrangement also failed to materialize.

In frustration, the victim sought help from the Chief Minister's office, which forwarded his complaint to the state police chief and the city police commissioner. Subsequently, the Fort police registered a case under sections 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code.

The complainant revealed that this fraud was not an isolated incident, stating, “Many others have been deceived in similar scams. The total fraud amounts to approximately Rs 200 crore. I later found out that the accused are facing multiple cases in other districts as well. Despite their assurances, they failed to deliver on their promises.”

The police acknowledged the complexity of the investigation, as the fraudulent transactions occurred in Dubai, and the company involved has no direct links to India. A police official remarked, “We have registered the case, but the investigation presents significant challenges. The transactions took place outside India, making it difficult to trace and prosecute the culprits. Nevertheless, we are exploring all available avenues to proceed with the inquiry.”

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)