Bachupally Police Arrest NRI Priest At RGIA For Alleged Multi-Lakh Puja Fraud

The Bachupally police on Friday arrested an NRI priest at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad for allegedly cheating several devotees of lakhs of rupees under the pretext of performing special pujas. The accused, identified as Ch. Rama Lacharao, was detained by immigration officials upon his arrival from the United States and subsequently handed over to the local police.

According to the police, Lacharao allegedly collected large sums of money from various devotees by promising to perform special religious rituals. He reportedly assured the victims that these pujas would resolve their ongoing personal and financial problems.

However, instead of resolving their issues, the accused allegedly defrauded them. When some of the victims later demanded their money back, Lacharao reportedly threatened them. Police stated that he claimed he would use black magic against the victims if they continued to demand the return of their funds.

The multi-lakh fraud scheme came to light after a software professional lodged a formal complaint with the Bachupally police, alleging that the priest had cheated him of his money. Based on this complaint, the police booked a case against the accused.

Shortly after the case was registered, Lacharao reportedly fled the country to the United States. In response, the police issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against the suspect to prevent him from evading the investigation.

While residing in the United States, Lacharao reportedly faced further legal complications. Officials indicated that the accused is also suspected of being involved in similar cheating cases abroad. He recently returned to India after reportedly facing legal issues in the US, which included complaints filed against him by the owner of a temple where he was associated.

Upon his arrival at the RGIA, immigration officials identified Lacharao through the active Look Out Circular. They detained the suspect immediately and handed him over to the Bachupally police for further action.

The police suspect that the number of victims defrauded by the priest could be much higher than initially reported. Investigators are currently verifying additional complaints and examining financial transactions linked to the suspect to determine the full extent of the fraud.