Pune Woman Loses ₹3.6 Crore to Online Fraudster After Receiving ₹5 Crore in Alimony
In a shocking case that has drawn the attention of law enforcement and cybercrime experts, a Lucknow-born man, now an Australian citizen, was arrested at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for allegedly defrauding a Pune-based woman of ₹3.6 crore under the guise of marriage and startup investments. The suspect, identified as Abhishek Shukla, was apprehended upon his arrival from Singapore after being on the run for several months.
A Deceptive Promise of Marriage and Business Ventures
According to Pune Cyber Police, Shukla created a fake profile under the name “Dr. Rohit Oberoi,” claiming to be a doctor residing in Perth, Australia. He connected with a 40-year-old divorcee from Kharadi, Pune, through a matrimonial website in 2023. Over the following months, Shukla built an emotional bond with the woman, gaining her trust and proposing marriage. He also pitched the idea of launching a healthcare startup in India and abroad, promising quick profits and a secure future together, which led her to invest in the venture.
A Calculated Fraud That Left a Trail of Deceit
The victim, who had received ₹5 crore in alimony after her divorce, began transferring funds into various bank accounts provided by Shukla. In total, she sent ₹3.6 crore over several months. Once he received the money, Shukla gradually distanced himself, claiming illness and even sending an email from a fictitious address announcing his own death. The woman became suspicious when she could not reach him or receive updates about the business.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
After filing a complaint in November 2024, the Pune cybercrime team launched a comprehensive investigation. They uncovered that Shukla had used forged documents and fake social media accounts, having interacted with over 3,194 women on the matrimonial site, indicating multiple potential victims across various locations.
A Lookout Circular (LOC) was issued, and Indian authorities tracked his movements with the help of international agencies. Shukla was finally arrested at Mumbai Airport on June 25, 2025, upon his return from Singapore.
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