A property dealer in Surat, Gujarat, found himself swindled out of ₹6.5 lakh after falling for a promise of cheap dollars. The perpetrators, who had meticulously planned the operation, gained the businessman’s trust before executing a daring, film-like escape with the cash. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in unofficial currency exchange.

The victim, Kamlesh Pragji Bhai Jogani, a resident of the Vachha area, was approached by his friend Ranjibhai who needed foreign currency. Kamlesh involved his son, who then connected with Dwarkesh, who in turn introduced him to Salman alias Tanim Kapadia. Salman claimed he could procure dollars at a rate significantly lower than the market, initiating the elaborate deception.

The scammers lured Kamlesh and his associate to a deserted street near Lal Gate under the pretense of security and a quiet place to conduct the transaction. Once there, Salman took possession of the bag containing ₹6.5 lakh, ostensibly to count the money. He then produced a fake scenario, leaving one accomplice, Faisal, with the victim while he disappeared into the alley with the cash.

When Salman failed to return after a considerable delay, Kamlesh became suspicious. At this point, Faisal created a diversion, staging a fake argument and using the ensuing commotion to flee. Realizing they had been duped, Kamlesh immediately reported the incident to the Lal Gate police station.

Authorities have registered a case of fraud against Salman and Faisal and are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the area to track their movements and identify potential escape routes. Police are urging the public to exercise extreme caution and avoid engaging in currency exchanges with unauthorized individuals.