Actress arrested for cheating in name of short film production

CHENNAI: A film actress and reality show contestant, Varshini Venkatt (28), has been arrested by Chennai police for defrauding a youth of Rs 5 lakh on the pretext of producing a short film.

The complaint was filed by Tarun (26), a resident of Guindy in Chennai, and a share trader. Varshini allegedly took Rs 5 lakh from him after promising to produce a short film. The complaint also alleged that when Tarun asked for his money back, she threatened him and forcibly took Rs 50,000 and expensive mobile phones from him.

Months after making the payment, Tarun reportedly sought a refund after the promised short film was not produced. Police said Varshini then called him under the pretext of returning the money, threatened him, and allegedly took the cash and mobile phones by force.

The actress was arrested on charges including cheating and robbery. Three other accused persons have also been arrested in connection with the case. Police said an investigation is underway to trace the remaining suspects involved in the alleged fraud.

Varshini was produced before a magistrate and remanded in judicial custody. She is a native of Mylapore in Chennai.