The Indians are using hypnosis or black magic: they write something on paper and then, staring directly into the eyes, command people to hand over their cash.
On August 2, in one of the capital's most luxurious areas — Patriarch's Ponds (Patriarshie Prudy) — perhaps the most exotic form of fraud was observed. Indian hypnotists are opening the 'third eye' of passersby. After such encounters, many find that not only their spirits but also their wallets have become lighter. "An Indian approached us and started talking through a translation app, saying something about religion. He had a notebook. Then he put some bracelets on our hands. Afterward, he said that we needed to give him money for the energy exchange to work," one of the victims recounted.
The Indians are using hypnosis or black magic: they write mysterious inscriptions on paper, then, staring into the eyes, order people to hand over cash. This "devil's town" is not afraid of the daylight, but when they see journalists, they scatter as if sprinkled with holy water. "That one should not talk to strangers at Patriarch's Ponds was known 100 years ago. Today, this phrase is more relevant than ever, only there is no mysticism here, just plain fraud," said Kharchenko.
The number of victims is already in the dozens, and the hypnotists themselves have become local celebrities of a sort. However, they are skillfully hiding from Moscow security personnel — perhaps the magic is actually working.
"There is a strong council of homeowners here, and they will certainly be informed about this. The management company hasn't told us anything yet, but I think we will find them anyway," emphasized a service employee.
But even if they are caught in the act, proving their guilt will not be easy.
"It depends on the amount of money involved. If it is classified as a large or particularly large amount, it could lead to up to 10 years of imprisonment. The sentences are serious. But, I repeat, the actual fact of fraud must be identified and proven," said Yevgeny Krivunts, Chairman of the Moscow Bar Association.
As for sorcery, there is no magic here, but hypnosis can be real. The most important thing for such influence is to force a person to engage in communication, distract their attention, and allow a stranger to violate personal boundaries. This is simple manipulation.
"They see a person staring at their phone, preoccupied with their own thoughts. They approach and ask any question. For example, how to get to the library at three in the morning. Any question. The most important condition to avoid falling into the trap is not to talk to them. Because once you answer, that's it, you are on their hook," explained psychologist and hypnologist Oksana Vasilyeva.
In short, the mystery at Patriarch's Ponds has not increased. However, the number of those wanting to make money at the expense of naive passersby has grown. Therefore, the advice not to talk to strangers is truly not without merit.
