The Vasai police arrested a duo on Wednesday for compelling a 12-year-old to steal in his house, after convincing him his parents were in danger and they could save them with black magic. Fearing for the lives of his loved ones, the boy took jewellery worth Rs 15 lakh from his house and gave it to the accused. The accused identified as Maqsood Ansari, 45, and Asif Menon, 18, are residents of Vasai West.

What had happened

According to the police, the theft occurred between January 5 and February 10. Menon recently befriended the 12-year-old boy. The police said he once asked him for money but the boy said he didn't have any. In January Menon allegedly introduced the boy to Ansari, claiming he could predict the future.