Who is the Nigerian Gang Associate Arrested in Ayurvedic Product Fraud?
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Synopsis
In Vadodara, a significant fraud case has unfolded involving a Nigerian gang associate who misappropriated Rs 1.24 crore from a local businessman under the pretext of supplying Ayurvedic products. As investigations continue, this alarming trend highlights the urgent need for consumer vigilance against herbal product fraud.
Key Takeaways
- Fraud involving Ayurvedic products is on the rise.
- Consumers should verify product authenticity.
- Authorities are intensifying efforts against fraudulent activities.
- Trust in traditional medicine must be safeguarded.
- Online transactions require extra caution.
Vadodara, May 19 (NationPress) The Vadodara Police in Gujarat have apprehended Grabian Oyenka, an associate of a Nigerian syndicate, in relation to a significant fraud case involving the illegal misappropriation of Rs 1.24 crore from a local entrepreneur.
The gang devised a complex scheme to defraud the victim under the guise of supplying Ayurvedic products. As reported by the police, the businessman was first contacted via social media with an offer to provide Ayurvedic liquid.
The gang members meticulously coordinated their actions, each assigned specific roles in sourcing the product. They assured the businessman of delivering the liquid at the agreed price and promised to share the profits equally.
Believing in this arrangement, the businessman supplied 20 litres of Ayurvedic liquid worth Rs 47 lakh from Krishna Herbal. However, the fraudsters subsequently coerced him into delivering an additional 50 litres, claiming losses due to delivery delays.
To entice him further, they promised an advance order for 130 litres and reiterated their commitment to equal profit sharing. Taking advantage of these promises, the gang ultimately swindled the businessman out of a total of Rs 1.24 crore.
The Vadodara Cyber Cell, which is probing the case, arrested Grabian Oyenka, who pretended to be an official from Krishna Herbal to gain the victim's confidence.
The investigation remains active as police strive to reveal the complete scale of the gang's operations. Fraud involving Ayurvedic products has increasingly been scrutinized in Gujarat, with several cases reported in recent years related to the sale of counterfeit or substandard herbal medicines, deception, and extensive financial scams.
Recent statistics from Gujarat's crime records indicate that incidents of herbal product fraud have surged by nearly 15 percent over the last two years, highlighting the rising demand for traditional medicines while also exposing vulnerabilities exploited by criminals.
In August 2024, the Gujarat Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) conducted a raid in a factory located in Surat's Olpad area, discovering the illicit production of Ayurvedic products without the required licenses.
This raid led to the confiscation of products valued at Rs 11.60 lakh, including various Ayurvedic medicines such as Kawath, Churna, and Joint Relief Oil. The factory, owned by Jogi Herbaceuticals Private Limited, was promptly sealed, and manufacturing was halted.
Previously, in the Navsari district, FDCA officials uncovered a scam where a quack posed as a 'diabetic expert' and administered Ayurvedic pills mixed with allopathic drugs to patients.
The raid at the quack's clinic resulted in the seizure of medicinal stock estimated at around Rs 90,000. Authorities have intensified monitoring and awareness initiatives, urging consumers to verify product authenticity and procure only from reputable sources to prevent falling victim to such fraud.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of vigilance in the face of rising fraud incidents, especially in the Ayurvedic product sector. This case serves as a critical reminder for consumers to prioritize their safety by purchasing from trusted sources and verifying product legitimacy. We at Nation are committed to providing accurate information and raising awareness to combat such scams.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the fraudulent activity reported?
The fraudulent activity involved a Nigerian gang that deceived a local businessman into supplying Ayurvedic products, ultimately misappropriating Rs 1.24 crore.
How did the gang approach the victim?
The gang initially contacted the victim via social media, offering to supply Ayurvedic liquid.
What measures are being taken to address Ayurvedic product fraud?
Authorities are increasing surveillance and awareness campaigns, urging consumers to verify the authenticity of products and purchase only from reputable sources.
What has been the trend in Ayurvedic product fraud cases?
There has been a reported increase of nearly 15 percent in herbal product fraud cases in Gujarat over the past two years.
What should consumers do to avoid fraud?
Consumers should ensure they buy Ayurvedic products from trusted vendors and verify product authenticity to avoid falling victim to scams.
