In a shocking incident, police have busted a robbery racket that used dating apps to lure and loot unsuspecting victims in Bhubaneswar. The gang reportedly targeted individuals through a gay dating platform, inviting them to secluded locations before assaulting and robbing them.

Modus Operandi: Lure, Trap, and Loot

According to police, the accused used fake profiles on dating apps to initiate conversations with victims. After gaining their trust, they would invite them to isolated places. Once the victims arrived, they were physically assaulted and robbed of gold ornaments, cash, and other valuables.

Incident in Keshura Leads to Breakthrough

The case came to light after a युवक was allegedly lured to an abandoned house in the Keshura area in March and robbed. Acting on the complaint, Bharatpur Police launched an investigation.

Two accused, including a woman, have been arrested. They have been identified as Manoranjan Jena and Preeti Gaya. A minor involved in the case has been sent to a juvenile correction home.

Police have also recovered ₹14,000 from the accused. Efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the gang who are currently absconding.

Separate Case: Matrimonial Fraud in City

In a separate but equally alarming case, a 37-year-old businessman from Balasore district fell victim to a matrimonial fraud after connecting with a woman through the online platform Shaadi.com.

The victim, Biswrit Das, had created a profile on the site following the death of his wife in 2023. He came in contact with a woman identified as Hemalata Giri, who expressed interest in marriage.

Fake Marriage Promise and Financial Exploitation

The woman allegedly convinced the victim to enter into a secret marriage arrangement and rented a house together in Shishupalgarh area, posing as a married couple. Over a period of 10 to 15 months, she reportedly extorted ₹35 to ₹40 lakh from him under various pretexts.

Shocking Discovery and Threats

The victim later discovered the accused woman in a compromising situation with another man and secretly recorded the incident. Further investigation revealed that she was allegedly inviting multiple men to the rented house and charging them money.

When confronted, the accused reportedly threatened to implicate the victim in a false rape case. Following this, the victim lodged a complaint at Dhauli Police Station.

Police Investigation Underway

Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the matter. Officials have urged citizens to exercise caution while interacting with strangers on online platforms, including dating and matrimonial sites.