In a startling revelation, a couple from Kanpur, Rajeev Kumar Dubey and his wife Rashmi, have been charged with defrauding numerous elderly citizens out of a staggering ₹35 crore (around $4.2 million). They allegedly promised these individuals a chance to restore their youth through what they claimed was an “Israel-made time machine.” This fraudulent scheme has gained significant media attention since it was exposed on October 3, 2024, prompting police to launch an investigation into the couple’s activities.
The Operations at Revival World
The Dubeys operated a therapy center called Revival World in the Kidwai Nagar area of Kanpur. They propagated the myth that they had imported a revolutionary machine from Israel, which purportedly could reverse the aging process using a method they termed “oxygen therapy.” Their outlandish claims suggested that this treatment could rejuvenate a 60-year-old individual to feel and appear as youthful as a 25-year-old by countering the detrimental effects of pollution, which they argued was accelerating aging among the local populace.
The Schemes and Their Victims
To attract clients, Rajeev and Rashmi Dubey offered enticing membership packages. They charged ₹90,000 for a three-year membership that promised multiple sessions of oxygen therapy. For those hesitant to commit, a lower-tier package was available for ₹6,000, offering ten sessions. Furthermore, the couple implemented a pyramid scheme approach, incentivizing existing customers to refer new clients through discounts or complimentary sessions.
Many victims recounted manipulative marketing strategies, which pressed upon the fears surrounding pollution and aging. Desperate for rejuvenation, numerous elderly individuals became victims of these misleading promises. Among them was Renu Singh Chandel, who reported losing ₹10.75 lakh (approximately $13,000) and indicated that she had encouraged several others to sign up, thereby amplifying the impact of the scam.
Ongoing Police Investigation
The emergence of complaints from multiple victims led law enforcement to file a First Information Report (FIR) against the Dubeys under Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to cheating. Authorities are on high alert, suspecting that the couple may have fled the country to evade prosecution, as they currently remain untraceable. To prevent their escape, police have alerted airports and are actively searching for them.
Initial Findings of the Investigation
Anjali Vishwakarma, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), has suggested that the number of victims involved in this scam could exceed two dozen. While only a few have initially come forward, it is believed that many more may have suffered financial losses at the hands of the Dubeys.
Impact on the Community
This incident has raised significant concerns within the Kanpur community, particularly regarding the vulnerability of elderly citizens to such fraudulent schemes. The promises of youth and vitality can be enticing, but it highlights the importance of due diligence and skepticism when faced with extraordinary claims. As the police investigation continues, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with unverified health treatments.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Do Your Research | Always verify the legitimacy of health products or services through reliable sources. |
| Consult Professionals | Seek medical advice from qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing any treatment. |
| Watch for Red Flags | Be cautious of claims that sound too good to be true or that promise miraculous results. |
| Trust Your Instincts | If something feels off, it is essential to trust your gut feeling and investigate further. |
This case underscores the need for continued vigilance and education to protect vulnerable populations from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
