Police in India lodged a case this week against an unknown online fraudster who tried selling the world's largest statue for US$4 billion, claiming the proceeds would be used to help the Gujarat state government fund its fight against the coronavirus.

General view of the "Statue of Unity" portraying Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the founding fathers of India, during its inauguration in Kevadia in Gujarat, October 31, 2018. REUTERS/Amit Dave/Files