A shocking case of matrimonial fraud has emerged from the Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh, where a prospective bride and her family allegedly vanished with approximately 18 lakh rupees and expensive gold jewelry. The incident, which unfolded after an elaborate ring ceremony, has prompted local police to initiate a thorough investigation.
How the Matrimonial Plot Unfolded
The scam targeted a family residing in the Sangroh village of Hamirpur. Kusum Lata, a resident of the village, filed a formal complaint detailing how the fraudulent scheme was executed. The trouble began when a marriage proposal was finalized between the two families. To establish trust, the bride's brother claimed that their family lived near the bus stand in Kangra. After mutual agreement, the families organized an engagement ceremony, which took place in Chandigarh on June 20. During this event, the groom's family presented the bride-to-be with valuable gold ornaments and other premium gifts to celebrate the upcoming union.
Citing Investments to Extract Huge Sums
Following the successful ring ceremony, the wedding date was mutually scheduled for July 12. However, shortly after the engagement, the bride's family began asking for financial assistance. Citing business investment opportunities and other urgent personal requirements, they convinced the groom's family to transfer money. Over several transactions, the groom's side sent around 18 lakh rupees through Google Pay directly into the bank accounts provided by the accused.
The Fake Tragedy and Sudden Disappearance
The deception reached its climax on July 7 when the bride's brother called the groom's family. He claimed that their maternal uncle had suddenly passed away in Canada, necessitating an immediate overseas trip for their entire family. Immediately after this phone call, all mobile numbers associated with the bride and her brother were switched off, leaving the groom's family unable to establish contact.
Sensing something was wrong, the groom's family visited the designated marriage palace on July 11 to confirm the arrangements for the scheduled July 12 wedding. To their utter dismay, the venue management informed them that no booking had ever been made for that date. Realizing they had fallen victim to an organized matrimonial scam, the family approached the Awahdevi police post. Authorities have registered a case based on the complaint and are actively tracing the suspects.
