Sensitive videos and bank transactions were recovered from his mobile phone and social media accounts.
Hyderabad:An NRI priest accused of cheating and extorting temple devotees under the guise of performing black magic was arrested at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad, on his arrival from the United States.
Police said Chamarthi Rama Laccha Rao had fled abroad after swindling lakhs of rupees from devotees. A temple in‑charge lodged a complaint against him, and a woman software employee also submitted a written complaint, requesting that her identity not be disclosed. Bachupalli police registered a case of cheating and blackmail, and during investigation found that he had trapped several women victims both in India and the US.
Sensitive videos and bank transactions were recovered from his mobile phone and social media accounts. Cyber experts and women police officials are examining the material. Based on the probe, a Look Out Circular was issued and immigration authorities detained him on arrival.
Cases of cheating and extortion under exploitative practices performed in the name of supernatural powers have been registered against him, police sources said. His formal arrest is yet to be disclosed.
“We urge victims to come forward and lodge complaints without hesitation. Their identity will not be revealed. Police will ensure recovery of money from the accused,” an officer said. Citizens were advised not to fall prey to superstitious practices and to report such incidents at the nearest police station.
