In a significant breakthrough, police have arrested five individuals, including two women, involved in a honey-trap scam that targeted men and extorted large sums of money. The accused have been identified as Saniya (23), Irfan (27), Rahish (48), Fareed (27), and Reshma (45).
Saniya, the alleged mastermind of the operation, lured victims to meet her in person, later extorting money through coercion and threats. The scam came to light on September 11, when Arif, a resident of Nuh, filed a complaint with the police.
Arif claimed that Saniya had contacted him in February 2024, claiming to be a victim of domestic violence. On February 23, she called Arif for help, alleging her husband was physically abusing her. Arif, along with a friend, went to meet her near Ballabgarh, where Saniya led them to a secluded spot in Nekpur village. Once there, she allegedly coerced Arif into physical relations.
According to Arif’s complaint, Saniya’s husband, Salim, and his associates arrived shortly after, threatening to accuse Arif of violating her modesty unless he paid a large sum of money. Fearing public humiliation, Arif handed over Rs 3.51 lakh to the group. Later, Arif discovered that his friend Kale, also known as Mubarik, was part of the same criminal gang.
Following Arif’s complaint, police filed an FIR under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Saniya, Irfan, and Rahish were arrested on September 14, Reshma was arrested on September 15, and Fareed was arrested on September 17.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Hemender Kumar Meena confirmed that three other members of the gang had previously been arrested for extorting Rs 1 lakh from a dhaba owner in Sector 58. Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, interrogating the suspects and identifying additional victims of the honey-trap scheme.
