A Kandivli-based chartered accountant says he lost Rs 16.29 crore over nearly nine years after he was repeatedly approached for money using what he alleges were increasingly elaborate explanations, from helping people in need and funding a woman’s pilot training in the US to an alleged FBI case, a Green Card, medical emergencies and overseas property.

The case, registered by Kandivli police last year, has more than 25 accused named and three arrests so far, according to police. Those arrested on Tuesday are Aishwari Surendra Rane, Shazia Shamshi and Rizwan Shaikh, all residents of Mira-Bhayandar.