India, April 19 -- They've caught countless ailments over the years, but this time, 72 doctors missed the one diagnosis they never expected: fraud. The doctors were collectively cheated of Rs.2 crore by a man posing as a tour operator, who promised them an idyllic vacation in Baku in Azerbaijan.

Police said that Sharad Hegde, the alleged tour operator, met the doctors at a five-star hotel in Powai, during a conference of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI) in November 2024. "Through the society, the doctors keep themselves updated on medical practices, engage in social work, and arrange personal and family trips," said a police officer from Dadar police station.

The conference, organised by FOGSI, wa...