Deoria Momo Scam: Deoria district in Uttar Pradesh has been shaken by a disturbing case where a minor was allegedly manipulated into stealing jewellery from his own home in exchange for free momos. What began as a child’s innocent craving turned into a massive financial and emotional blow for an entire family.
The incident has raised serious questions about child safety, exploitation, and the responsibility of street vendors toward minors.
A Daily Temptation on the Way Home
The boy, identified as Vimlesh, is the son of Ramayan Mishra and studies in Class 7. According to the family, Vimlesh regularly passed through Dumri Chauraha while returning from school. There, momo stalls lined the road, and the child developed a strong liking for the popular street food.
However, like most children, Vimlesh did not always have money to spend. That is where the situation allegedly took a dangerous turn.
Free Momos in Exchange for Jewellery
Police officials say that over time, three different momo vendors allegedly coaxed the minor with a shocking offer — free momos in return for jewellery from his home. Being a child, Vimlesh reportedly failed to grasp the gravity of the situation.
Gradually, he began taking ornaments from his house cupboard. Sometimes it was silver toe rings, sometimes gold rings, necklaces, waistbands, or bangles. Each visit to the momo stall allegedly ended with free food — and another family heirloom gone.
Investigators estimate that jewellery worth nearly ₹85 lakh was handed over in this manner.
Truth Comes Out After Sister Notices Missing Ornaments
The matter came to light when Vimlesh’s sister visited the house to collect her jewellery. When the cupboard was opened, the family was stunned to find it almost empty.
A detailed inquiry followed, during which Vimlesh revealed the entire sequence of events. Shocked and distressed, Ramayan Mishra immediately approached the police and filed a formal complaint against the three momo vendors.
List of Stolen Jewellery Submitted to Police
The complaint included a detailed inventory of the missing ornaments, which reportedly comprised:
- One pair of gold necklaces
- Nine gold rings
- Two mang tikas
- Two pairs of gold bangles
- A gold waistband
- Thirteen silver toe rings
- Other valuable ornaments
The total value of the missing jewellery was estimated at around ₹85 lakh.
One Accused Arrested, Two Still Absconding
Deoria police acted swiftly and arrested one of the accused vendors. During interrogation, the accused claimed that he had received only two gold bangles, which have since been recovered.
Police confirmed that two other accused vendors are currently absconding. Efforts are underway to track them down and recover the remaining jewellery.
Police Warning and Ongoing Investigation
Senior police officials have described the case as a serious example of exploitation of a minor. They have assured the family that all possible efforts are being made to recover the stolen valuables and bring every accused to justice.
Authorities have also urged parents to remain vigilant and advised vendors to strictly avoid engaging with minors in any form of inducement or manipulation.