Paul Gladson, a 53-year-old resident of Annanagar, Chennai, has been arrested by the West Police for allegedly defrauding a doctor of Rs85 lakhs under the guise of securing a medical seat at Vellore Medical College. The scam came to light when a doctor from Thrissur West Fort approached Gladson for admission assistance for his daughter.
Dressed in a bishop’s cassock and speaking only in English, Gladson convinced victims that he had control over a quota seat at the prestigious college, demanding between Rs80 lakhs to Rs1 crore for his services. Victims typically began to investigate only after realizing they had lost their money without securing a seat, at which point Gladson would disappear.
Authorities have uncovered that Gladson has reportedly scammed more thanRs10 crore from individuals across various districts. The crime branch is currently investigating additional irregularities amounting to Rs20 crores linked to him in Tamil Nadu.
Gladson, who falsely claimed to be the Anglican Bishop in charge of the Vellore Medical College, has faced multiple charges at police stations in Koratti, Adoor, Angamali, Pandalam, and Pala. Known for frequently changing his phone number and residence to evade capture, he was ultimately apprehended by a team led by West SHO Shiju Abraham, including SI Sujith, Sr. CPO Tony Varghese, and CPO Rubin Antony.
The accused has since been remanded in custody as investigations continue.