London: A chilling tale of emotional manipulation has emerged as a ‘heart specialist’ from the UK stands accused of preying on women’s vulnerabilities under the pretext of matrimony. The distressing saga unraveled when a brave dermatologist from Ahmedabad stepped forward, revealing a harrowing experience of falling victim to a ‘UK-based doctor’ who left her stranded after siphoning off a staggering Rs 18 lakh.

Shockingly, this was just the tip of the iceberg, as investigations have unveiled a trail of deceit affecting at least 21 other women.

Rs 4.50 crore swindled

Authorities disclosed that the collective magnitude of the con artist’s fraudulent acts amounted to an astounding Rs 4.50 crore. The elaborate deception came to light in early August when a 35-year-old dermatologist urgently sought help from women’s helpline. She revealed her nightmarish ordeal involving Dr. Dilip Kumar, she encountered on a matrimonial platform. Subsequent investigations lifted the veil on a cunning fraudster impersonating a doctor, triggering a chain of heart-wrenching events.

Cruel manipulation and financial exploitation

The alleged culprit, an expert at exploiting emotions, preyed on vulnerable women in their 30s and 40s. By skillfully cultivating trust, he masterfully manipulated his victims into his elaborate scheme.

The pattern involved concocting medical emergencies and extracting hefty sums of money, coupled with persuading the enamored women to lavish him with expensive gifts, all under the guise of love and commitment.

Unveiling the depths of deception

The distressing impact of the ‘heart specialist’s’ manipulations extended beyond mere monetary losses. Struggling to come to terms with their traumatic experiences, the affected women hesitated to step forward at first.

However, with patient counseling and empathetic support from the police officials, the true gravity of the impostor’s deceit emerged.

Restitution and seeking justice

Overcoming initial reluctance, the victims finally mustered the courage to make statements against their tormentor. As a result, a substantial sum of Rs 4.50 crore was painstakingly restored to these victims, symbolizing a small victory against the backdrop of their ordeal. However, CID (crime) officials suspect that a multitude of other women may have silently suffered at the hands of this cunning heart specialist.

The harrowing tale of the UK-based doctor’s matrimonial scam serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk behind seemingly genuine profiles.