The Madhapur police have arrested seven individuals involved in a significant online dating scam, which was exposed after a victim was coerced into paying Rs40,505 at a Gachibowli pub on June 6. Following his experience, the victim discovered similar complaints on Google reviews, revealing a pattern of deceit. The scam involved collaboration between pub owners and women who lured businessmen through dating apps to extort money.
The arrested suspects, identified as Aakash Kumar, Suraj Kumar, Akshat Narula, Tarun, Shiv Raj Nayak, Rohith Kumar, and Cherkupally Sai Kumar, were apprehended in Nagpur. DCP (Madhapur) Dr. G. Vineeth explained that the gang targeted innocent customers via online dating apps, enticing them to Mosh Pub in Madhapur, where they pressured them into purchasing expensive drinks. The total amount defrauded is estimated to be around Rs30 lakh, affecting 50 to 60 victims.
The accused operated a nightclub called Devils Night Club in Delhi, recruiting women seeking jobs. They created fake profiles on dating apps to attract customers. Suraj Kumar would pose as a woman in chats, facilitating initial meetings at cafes before manipulating victims into visiting the pub.
Once there, the gang ensured high bills accumulated. The women would vanish after racking up costs, leaving the unsuspecting customers to foot the bill. The total charges were then divided among the pub owner, organizers, and the women involved. This scam, previously executed in Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, was also being planned for Nagpur. Some victims reported their experiences to the police, prompting further investigation.
