The news that a person got cheated of his money and belongings has become a frequently published item in the newspaper these days. It is true that a human being has an instinct to preserve himself and his property, but the criminals whom we call ‘cheats’ have devised ingenious ways to deceive the targeted victim and whisk away his property. This article is an attempt to create awareness in the minds of public on the common ways to cheat adopted by the criminals in public places and at homes. The knowledge of the modus operandi adopted by these criminals could immensely help in prevention of such type of a crime.

The word “kepmari” is commonly used by police to denote trickery used by criminals to cheat the public. There are various tricks adopted by the kepmars to cheat or steal from the targeted victim. The criminals operate usually in a group of three to four persons. However, sometimes a criminal may operate alone. The deception is generally caused by the criminal to distract the victim from his property. This period of distraction is sufficient enough for the criminal to disappear with the property of the victim. It is important to note that these criminals are professionals well adept in the art of trickery. They have assumed very efficiently. Their attire, gait and the mannerisms perfectly match with the surroundings where they intend to pull off the crime.

The choice of the victim is made by the criminals after carefully observing the target over a short period of time. Before they commit a crime, the gullibility of the victim is assessed by them. In several of these criminal tricks to be successful, confidence building with the victim is quite essential. This is followed by gaining complete trust of the victim within a brief span of time. Once the victim begins trusting the criminal, it becomes easier for the criminal to have the property of the victim delivered into his possession. The cheat then causes a distraction and escapes with the property.

Contributed by A&N Police