Mumbai: Man Posing As Transgender Enters Powai Flat, S*xually Assaults Air Hostess on Pretext of ‘Evil Eye’ Cure

A 25-year-old air hostess was allegedly s*xually assaulted at her Powai residence after a man posing as a transgender person gained entry to her flat on the pretext of performing a ritual to remove an “evil eye” affecting her family, police said. The accused, identified as 28-year-old Anil Shinde, was arrested early Wednesday after investigators tracked his movements through more than 100 CCTV cameras, TOI reported.

Accused Gained Entry on Pretext of Ritual

According to police, the incident took place between 12.20 pm and 12.50 pm on Tuesday at a housing society in Powai. Shinde allegedly entered the building after gaining the confidence of the security guard and then knocked on several apartment doors. Befriended on Instagram, 14-Year-Old Girl Lured to Nalasopara Chawl and Gang-Raped; 2 Minors Arrested.

The woman eventually opened the door. Police said Shinde claimed that he could perform a ritual to remove the “evil eye” allegedly affecting her and her husband, who was hospitalised at the time. The woman told police that she allowed him inside because of the claims he made about helping her family.

Woman Allegedly Assaulted Inside Bedroom

In her complaint, the woman alleged that Shinde sprinkled water on her and placed his hand on her head before taking her into the bedroom. She alleged that he asked her to close her eyes and lie on the bed, following which he sexually assaulted her. She screamed during the alleged assault, prompting the accused to flee, police said. According to investigators, Shinde also allegedly took ₹200 from the woman before leaving the flat. Mumbai Shocker: 6 Men Gang-Rape 19-Year-Old Woman at Talasari Bungalow After Abducting Her.

Police Trace Accused Through CCTV

The woman reached the police station at around 11 pm, where she was initially distressed and unable to fully describe what had happened. A female police officer spoke with her and helped her provide details of the alleged incident, police said.

DCP (West Zone-3) Datta Nalawade supervised the investigation. A police team examined CCTV footage from the housing society and surrounding areas and traced Shinde's movements after he left the building.

Investigators said they followed his route, including footage showing him taking an autorickshaw towards Kalwa. He was arrested from a slum area in Kalwa early Wednesday. Police said the case was solved within about four hours after the investigation began.

Police Examine Possible Similar Cases

Police said Shinde claimed his family was involved in begging while impersonating transgender persons. Investigators are now examining whether he may have been involved in similar incidents previously.

Police said provisions relating to black magic would also be considered in the case, in addition to charges relating to rape and criminal intimidation. Shinde remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Investigation Underway

The incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of residents to people gaining access to residential buildings by making false claims or exploiting personal beliefs and fears. The allegations against the accused will be subject to the ongoing investigation and court proceedings. Police are continuing to examine CCTV footage and other evidence to establish the complete sequence of events.

Women and Child Helpline Numbers:

Childline India – 1098; Missing Child and Women – 1094; Women’s Helpline – 181; National Commission for Women Helpline – 112; National Commission for Women Helpline Against Violence – 7827170170; Police Women and Senior Citizen Helpline – 1091/1291.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 20, 2026 11:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).