Fake ‘totka babas’ dupe Navi Mumbai woman of Rs 1.9 lakh, two arrested

Pic/Abhitash Singh

In a case highlighting the exploitation of blind faith, Navi Mumbai police have arrested two self-styled ‘totka babas' for allegedly cheating a Seawoods resident of over Rs 1.9 lakh. The accused allegedly promised to resolve her personal problems through black magic rituals.

The accused have been identified as Arjun Bharat Vahan alias Tappan Baba (29) and Sagar Shivaji Shinde alias Eklakshi Baba (24), both residents of Jalgaon district.

Victim Targeted With ‘Negative Energy' Claims

According to the police, the duo approached the woman and convinced her that she was under the influence of "negative energy" and that her family was at risk. They claimed that only specialised rituals performed by them could eliminate the supposed threat.

Fear Tactics Led to Repeated Payments

What began as a small payment allegedly escalated into repeated financial demands. Investigators said the accused used fear tactics - warning of serious consequences if the rituals were stopped - to pressure the victim into paying larger sums over time.

The alleged fraud took place between October and December 2025, during which the woman paid approximately Rs 1.9 lakh.

Complaint Triggers Swift Police Action

The case came to light after the victim confided in her family, who then approached the police. Based on the complaint, the NRI Coastal police station registered a case and initiated an investigation.

Using technical analysis and field intelligence, the police traced both accused and arrested them within 12 hours of identifying their location.

Police Warn Citizens Against Superstition Scams

"We have arrested both accused and recovered key details of the fraud. Citizens must remain alert and not fall prey to such claims of supernatural solutions. Legal action will be taken against those exploiting people's beliefs," said DCP Zone 2 Amit Kale.

Police suspect that the accused may have targeted more victims and said further investigation is underway.

Key Details

- Accused: Arjun Vahan alias Tappan Baba (29), Sagar Shinde alias Eklakshi Baba (24)

- Crime: Cheating a woman of Rs 1.9 lakh

- Period: October-December 2025

- Location: Navi Mumbai

- Modus Operandi: Black magic claims, fear tactics, repeated ritual demands

- Action Taken: Both arrested; further probe in progress