Kochi: A woman and her friend allegedly duped a young astrologer and stole 13 sovereigns of gold after luring him into a hotel room and spiking his drink. The incident took place on September 24 at a hotel in Edappally, Kochi. Elamakkara Police have initiated a search operation to nab the accused in connection with the case.

As per reports, gold jewellery including a necklace, chain and ring, and a mobile phone worth Rs 30,000 was stolen. The duo had introduced themselves as Vadakkencherry native Athira (30) and Thiruvananthapuram native Arun (34) to the astrologer. 

The woman reportedly befriended the astrologer through social media and inquired about various pujas and offerings to ward off bad omen. Following this, the woman asked the astrologer to come to Kochi and later took him to Edappally under the pretext of meeting her friend. Subsequently, she booked a room in a hotel claiming to be a married couple. 

Initially, the woman gave payasam to the astrologer, who refused to drink. She later spiked his drink, made him unconscious and stole the jewellery. While leaving the hotel, she told the receptionist that her husband was sleeping inside and asked her to check on him later. 

In the evening, the astrologer was spotted lying unconscious inside by the hotel employees. He later approached the police with the help of his relatives.