Authorities in Rajasthan, India, are investigating an alleged insurance fraud scheme involving a staged death that culminated in the murder of a beggar.
The case highlights the persistent challenges faced by insurers in combating fraud, an issue that has been identified as a growing concern across Asia.
According to The Times of India’s report, the incident occurred in Banswara district, where police discovered a body on Dec. 1 near National Highway 56.
Initially, the body was identified as that of Narendra Singh Rawat, based on documents found at the scene. However, investigations later revealed that the victim was Tofan Bairwa, a scavenger from Kota.
According to police, Rawat, burdened by heavy debts and holding multiple insurance policies, allegedly devised a plan to fake his own death.
He is accused of recruiting two accomplices – Bherulal, a disabled beggar, and Ibrahim, a truck driver – to execute the plan. The group allegedly lured Bairwa under the pretence of offering him a job, then drugged him over several days.
On Nov. 30, the group allegedly carried out the staged accident by running Bairwa over with a truck after leaving him incapacitated. The identification documents planted near the body were meant to convince authorities that Rawat was the victim.
Bherulal and Ibrahim were arrested and have reportedly confessed to their involvement. Rawat remains at large.
A new report from the Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) highlights the continued prevalence of insurance fraud, with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for the majority of respondents in its 2024 Global Claims Fraud Survey.
The findings shed light on the significant risks insurers face, particularly in the life and health insurance sectors.
The survey, which involved claims professionals from around the world, identified three primary types of fraud:
Fraud is most commonly detected during the claims process, with one in 30 claims globally showing signs of fraudulent activity.
Among respondents, 35% reported an increase in claims fraud, while 39% said levels had remained consistent. Fraud during underwriting is also a concern, with 85% noting that fraudulent activity had either remained the same or increased.
