Hyderabad doctor duped in fake Char Dham Yatra helicopter booking fraud

A 60-year-old doctor from Hyderabad lost over Rs. 3 lakh after booking a fake helicopter package for the Char Dham Yatra through an Instagram advertisement. The fraud was discovered after hotels and the helicopter operator confirmed that no booking had been made.

Hyderabad: A doctor from the city has lost over Rs. 3 lakh after falling victim to a fraudulent online helicopter booking scam while planning a Char Dham pilgrimage with his family.

The 60-year-old complainant from Attapur came across an advertisement on Instagram promoting helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra. When he contacted the number mentioned in the advertisement, it was answered by a person claiming to represent Himalayan Heli Services.

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The caller offered a helicopter tour package for six people, including a three-night, four-day itinerary, for Rs. 3.58 lakh. Believing the offer to be genuine, the doctor transferred more than Rs. 3 lakh in five instalments.

“To make the booking appear authentic, the fraudster sent emails containing alleged helicopter tickets, hotel reservation details and VVIP darshan confirmations,” police said.

The fraud came to light when the doctor contacted the hotel and the helicopter service provider before the scheduled trip. Both informed him that no booking existed in his name. It was then that he realised he had been cheated.

Based on the complaint, the Hyderabad Cybercrime Police booked a case and are investigating.