The case surfaced after multiple complaints since January from families who received calls from a man posing as a hospital doctor and demanding money for “urgent treatment.” Police said the accused, identified as Jitendra Khagre, a resident of Betul, used patient details to gain trust, sent QR codes for payments, and collected money via UPI. He was arrested from Indore late Thursday and handed over to Kohefiza police on Friday.
According to police and security agency sources, more than 10 families are believed to have been targeted, though only three have formally lodged complaints so far, reporting losses exceeding ₹30,000. Investigators allege that staff members in three departments—Obstetrics, Paediatrics, and Emergency Medicine—shared ward numbers, medical conditions, contact details, and patient status with the accused for a 20% commission.
“The information shared was highly specific, allowing the caller to convincingly impersonate a doctor,” a police official said. “This points to internal collusion.” The identities of the suspected staff members are being verified, and departmental action will follow once confirmed.
In one instance cited in the FIR, the father of a child admitted with a heart condition was approached by Khagre inside the hospital premises. Audio recordings obtained by police allegedly capture the accused promising expedited tests and logistical support, including a “free ambulance,” while insisting on immediate payment via QR code.
Another complainant, Nitesh Vishwakarma of Nehru Nagar, said he received calls claiming his pregnant wife and unborn child were in danger. Alarmed, he transferred money in multiple instalments before realising it was a scam. Similar methods were used on other victims, police said.
Hospital Superintendent Dr. Sunit Tandon urged patients and attendants to remain vigilant and report any demand for money in the hospital’s name. “No doctor or staff member seeks additional payment or sends QR codes for treatment,” he said, advising victims to call the national cybercrime helpline 1930 and inform hospital security immediately.
Police said the accused has been booked for impersonation and cheating, and further sections may be added as the probe expands. Investigators are tracing the money trail, examining call records, and mapping the network to identify all collaborators. The hospital administration has assured strict action, including termination, against any staff found complicit.
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