Mount Everest insurance scam: climbers allegedly poisoned for fake rescues

April 2, 2026

NEW DELHI: In a shocking case linked to Mount Everest, guides allegedly drugged climbers to make them sick and trigger fake helicopter rescues as part of a massive insurance scam worth around ₹185 crore. According to reports, authorities have charged 32 people, with nine arrested and others still absconding.

How the fake rescue scam worked
As per investigations, during a staged “medical emergency”, helicopters were called to evacuate climbers, after which insurance claims were filed. In some cases, guides allegedly frightened tourists into believing their lives were at risk due to altitude sickness, even when symptoms were mild and manageable.

It is also claimed that food was laced with Diamox (Acetazolamide), a medicine used for altitude sickness, along with excess water to induce symptoms that justified emergency evacuation.

Two methods used to exploit climbers
Investigators found two main tactics. In one, unsuspecting climbers were misled into believing they were seriously ill. In another, some climbers who did not want to trek back were offered the option to fake illness, with guides arranging helicopter rescues on their behalf.

A single helicopter reportedly transported multiple passengers, but full charges were billed individually to insurance companies using fake manifests and load sheets.

Hospitals and staff also under scanner
The scam allegedly extended to hospitals, where fake discharge summaries were created and digital signatures of senior doctors were misused. In some cases, so-called patients were even seen consuming alcohol in hospital premises instead of undergoing treatment.

Investigation and arrests so far
Authorities have charged 32 individuals, including staff from helicopter companies, hospitals, and tour operators. At least nine have been arrested so far. The fraud is estimated to have generated around $19.69 million in insurance payouts.

The investigation began after a complaint was filed in 2025 by a citizen group, following earlier concerns raised in 2018 about irregularities in rescue operations. Officials say weak enforcement allowed the scam to continue for years.