HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
Goa Police have uncovered a multi-crore scam where fraudsters posed as hotel operators to swindle over 500 unsuspecting tourists. The operation, active since 2022, involved listing fake properties on renowned booking platforms like Booking.com and collecting advance payments for non-existent accommodations.
In a significant breakthrough, the police arrested four individuals from Hyderabad and Jaipur connected to the scam. Superintendent of Police (SP) North Goa, Akshat Kaushal, said, “The fraudulent scheme exploited loopholes on booking platforms, tricking tourists into paying for properties that didn’t exist. The scam has defrauded victims of crores of rupees.”
The case came to light after a complaint was filed by Pankaj Dhiman, a Chandigarh resident, who lost INR 20,000 while booking a property called “Ruby Villa, Goa” on Booking.com. Upon arrival, Dhiman discovered the villa did not exist. His complaint led to an FIR being registered at Anjuna police station.
Investigations revealed that the fraudsters used multiple bank accounts to collect advance payments from tourists. Several victims reported being duped by similar fake villa listings on booking platforms. Efforts are currently underway to contact the victims and formally document their complaints.
Goa Police have warned tourists to verify property details and contact hosts directly before making payments online. The arrests mark a significant step in cracking down on fraudulent activities that target the state’s thriving tourism sector.
source: TOI
