Pokhara, Nepal – A mother seeking help for her son’s kidney stone surgery on social media lost Rs 3.8 million after falling victim to online fraudsters. Sarita Thapa (name changed), 39, from Kaski district, posted a video on TikTok appealing for funds to support her son’s medical treatment. Her plea caught the attention of a TikTok user with the handle @princesssultana804, who promised assistance.
How the Scam Unfolded
The fraudsters first contacted Sarita through TikTok, sending a message that read: “We want to help.” They then moved the conversation to WhatsApp and requested an initial payment of Rs 4,100.
The scammers promised to provide Rs 2 million in aid but insisted that Sarita needed to send money to facilitate the process. To make their lies believable, they sent fake bank statements showing the transfer of Rs 2 million and shared photos claiming customs duties would be charged.
Trusting their promises, Sarita deposited a total of Rs 3.828 million into various bank accounts. She used her savings and available funds, hoping to secure help for her son’s treatment.
Where the Money Went
According to police investigation, the money was deposited into accounts of six individuals:
Jenisha Rai: Rs 18 lakh (Lakshmi Sunrise Bank)
Rakesh Kumar Jaiswal: Rs 13.89 lakh (spread across 6 banks and e-services)
Roshan Mia: Rs 5.2 lakh (3 different banks)
Salman Alam Neuta: Rs 70,000 (Machhapuchhre Bank)
Dipesh Shahi: Rs 50,000 (Global IME Bank)
Sagarkumar Shah Kanu: Rs 49,000 (Global IME Bank)
Defendants Named in Court
All six account holders have been named as defendants and are currently absconding. They are:
Rakesh Kumar Jaiswal, 21, of Bara
Roshan Miya, 19, of Parsa
Salman Alam Neuta, 22, of Parsa
Sagar Kumar Shah Kanu, 22, of Parsa
Jenisha Rai, 29, of Bhojpur
Dipesh Shahi, 20, of Dadeldhura
Legal Action
The Kaski District Government Attorney’s Office filed a charge sheet last Thursday. The defendants face charges under Section 249 of the Criminal Code, 2074 BS, which carries a penalty of up to seven years imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 70,000.
The court has also been asked to order the defendants to compensate Sarita for her full loss of Rs 3.828 million.
Police Warning
Police have cautioned the public about the dangers of responding to financial promises from strangers on social media. Authorities continue searching for the fugitive suspects and investigating possible involvement of others in the scam.
This case serves as a reminder to verify any online offers of financial help and never send money to unknown individuals promising assistance.
