Beware of neighbours! Kollam native gets Rs 19000 'shock' in hospital, three arrested

KOLLAM: Sajith (42), a native of Chakirikada, was admitted to the hospital a few days ago after suffering a stroke. While he was recovering from his illness, a message from a friend arrived on his phone on Tuesday. It was a fundraising campaign to collect money to pay for the funeral and the hospital bill of a youngster who died after suffering a stroke. While scrolling through the phone, Sajith was left dumbfounded when he recognised that the youngster mentioned in the message was himself. Sajith smelled a scam and filed a complaint with the police through his wife. When investigated, Sajith found that the culprits were his neighbours, who were always amicable.

The Eravipuram police charged Nizamuddin of Saitalavi Manzil, Chakirikada, Pallimukku; Sudhir of Mangkuzhi, Valathungal, and Lubekar of Babuji Nagar, Vayanakulam, Valathungal with cheating. The gang swindled around Rs. 19,000.

They called their acquaintances who were financially capable and requested help for the family of the youngster. With the money pooled, the three engaged in extravaganza. However, in the blissful state, the gang unknowingly sent the message to a friend of Sajith. The gaffe proved costly.

The accused, who were arrested on charges of cheating, were released on station bail. The police announced that the accused would be taken into custody again after a detailed investigation.