KATHMANDU — A case has emerged where a Nepali citizen residing in Seoul, South Korea, was defrauded of cash and goods worth millions of rupees by individuals in Nepal posing as a 'Mata' (deity) under the pretext of curing an illness. In accordance with journalistic ethics and standards, the victim's identity has been kept confidential.

According to the victim's allegations, a man named Anil Bomjan, who introduced himself as 'Aadi Kumari' and 'Pathibhara Mata', lured them with promises of curing illnesses through shamanism and divine powers. Pretending to offer treatment, Bomjan allegedly extorted approximately 1.5 tolas of gold, Rs. 50,000 in cash, a box bed valued at Rs. 50,000, and 16 makeup items, including a lehenga worth Rs. 35,000.

Additionally, expensive worship materials were requested, including a trident, two Shiva idols, a Dashamahavidya Kali idol, a Palanchowk Bhagawati idol, a Ganesh idol, and a Serpent idol. Furthermore, the victim claimed that Bomjan demanded a palanquin, stating, "I have been possessed by the goddess for 19 years, and now a chariot procession must be carried out."

Use of a Woman Changing Names as a Middleman

In this entire fraud scheme, a woman played the role of a middleman. It was revealed that the woman identified herself as 'Kabita Ghale', 'Laiba Ghale', and 'Asmi' depending on the situation. According to available information, her real name mentioned on her citizenship card is 'Laiba Ghale'.

All communication and monetary transactions between the victim and the alleged Mata Anil Bomjan were conducted through this Asmi, alias Laiba Ghale.

Accused Go Out of Contact

After a long period of rituals and alleged treatment, the patient's condition showed no improvement, leading the victim to suspect foul play and request the return of their belongings and money. When asked to return the items, Anil Bomjan attempted to evade responsibility by saying "bring Asmi (Laiba)," with the victim alleging that both individuals conspired to misappropriate the funds and goods. Currently, Asmi (Laiba Ghale), who acted as the middleman, is completely untraceable.

Growing Fraud in the Name of Superstition

Recently, the trend of defrauding innocent citizens in Nepal under the pretext of superstition and shamanism has been increasing alarmingly. The police administration frequently urges the public to remain vigilant against such gangs that exploit people's psychological fear and vulnerability for financial extortion under titles like 'Mata', 'Baba', or 'Incarnation of God'.

Appeal for Clarification

Efforts made on our part to contact Anil Bomjan and Laiba Ghale (Asmi/Kabita) named in this news report to include their statement were unsuccessful. If the accused parties wish to provide a rebuttal or clarification on this matter, we will maintain journalistic ethics and impartiality by giving space to their statement in the coming days.