Boy tricked into giving jewellery worth Rs 85 lakh for free momos in Uttar Pradesh

Momos are a favourite snack for many children in India, but in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, a young boy’s love for momos turned into a costly lesson. According to local police, three men allegedly tricked a class 7 student into handing over jewellery from his home in exchange for free momos. The jewellery is reported to be worth Rs 85 lakh. The incident has shocked the community and raised concerns about children being manipulated by strangers.

The boy, who lives with his family in Deoria, is a student of class 7 and often visited the area near Dumri Chauraha on the Deoria-Kasya road. The three men reportedly ran a small momo stall there and became acquainted with the boy over time. Using the boy’s love for momos, they persuaded him to bring jewellery from his home in return for the snacks.

The situation came to light when the boy’s sister went to check for her jewellery. Upon opening the almirah, she noticed that the jewellery was missing. The boy admitted to giving the jewellery to the three men for free momos. Shocked by this revelation, the boy’s father, Vimlesh Mishra, who is a temple priest, immediately filed a complaint with the police.

FIR registered and investigation underway

Following the complaint, the Rampur Karkhana police station registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the three men under relevant legal sections. Station House Officer Devendra Kumar Singh confirmed that the jewellery is valued at Rs 85 lakh. He added that police are conducting a thorough investigation and efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the accused.

According to the FIR, Mishra stated that the three men befriended his son under the pretext of offering free momos. They gradually convinced him to bring the valuable jewellery from home. The items allegedly included jewellery belonging to both the boy and his sister. The police emphasized that they are taking all necessary steps to recover the stolen jewellery and ensure that the culprits face legal action.

The incident highlights how children can be vulnerable to manipulation, especially when tempted with things they love. Experts warn parents to educate their children about stranger danger and to monitor interactions outside the home. They also advise discussing the value of possessions and teaching children not to give away valuable items, even to people they trust superficially.

How to protect children from similar incidents

This case in Deoria is a reminder of the importance of vigilance and awareness for both parents and children. Experts suggest the following measures to protect children:

• Talk to children regularly about stranger danger and teach them not to trust anyone offering gifts in exchange for valuables.

• Monitor children's activities outside the home, including where they go and whom they meet.

• Encourage open communication so children feel comfortable sharing unusual experiences with parents.

• Educate children about the value of their possessions and explain that exchanging them for temporary rewards can have serious consequences.

• Engage community members and local authorities to ensure safe environments around schools, markets, and public spaces.

The Rampur Karkhana police continue to pursue leads and urge anyone with information regarding the three accused to come forward. They are also advising families to be cautious and to report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately.

ALSO READ: Sunetra Pawar’s swift rise as Maharashtra deputy CM and the questions around Sharad Pawar’s exclusion

ALSO READ: Shehbaz Sharif says Pakistan feels ashamed seeking loans abroad

While the boy’s parents are understandably distressed, this incident serves as an important lesson for the wider community about the risks children can face when interacting with strangers. Parents, schools, and local authorities must work together to prevent such cases and create safe spaces for children.

This case also raises questions about how easily children can be influenced by something as simple as food, in this case, momos. While the boy’s love for the snack may have seemed harmless, it became the basis for a significant loss to the family. Ensuring children understand the potential risks of interacting with strangers is essential to prevent such incidents in the future.

The police investigation remains active, and authorities hope to recover the jewellery and bring the accused to justice. Meanwhile, families in Deoria and surrounding areas are advised to remain alert and educate their children about the dangers of manipulation and the importance of safeguarding valuable possessions.