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In a disturbing reminder of the growing risks linked to online interactions, Bengaluru police have arrested a five-member gang, including two women who worked as make-up artistes, for allegedly honey-trapping and robbing a software professional. The case has raised serious concerns about organised honey-trap rackets operating in the city and preying on unsuspecting individuals through social media and messaging platforms.
According to police officials, the victim, a 31-year-old techie, was first approached online by one of the accused, who posed as a friendly acquaintance. After gaining his trust through regular conversations, she persuaded him to meet in person. During the meeting, the woman and her associates allegedly robbed him of cash and his mobile phone, while threatening to circulate compromising content if he approached the police. Fear and embarrassment reportedly kept the victim silent initially.
Taking advantage of his hesitation, the accused woman allegedly contacted the techie again using a different identity and convinced him to meet once more, this time in the RR Nagar area of Bengaluru. Investigators say this second meeting was a planned trap. The woman arrived with her accomplices, who allegedly threatened the victim, assaulted him, and demanded money. The situation escalated quickly, drawing the attention of local residents.
Alerted by bystanders, the police reached the spot and managed to detain all five accused. During the operation, officers recovered cash believed to have been taken from the victim. The accused were taken into custody and booked under multiple sections, including robbery, criminal intimidation, and assault.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the group may have used similar methods to target others, prompting police to expand their probe to identify additional victims. Authorities believe the gang deliberately targeted professionals, assuming they would be reluctant to report such incidents due to social stigma and fear of public exposure.
Police officials have issued a strong advisory urging citizens to exercise caution while interacting with strangers online, especially when asked to meet in private locations. They stressed that no one should give in to blackmail or threats and encouraged immediate reporting of suspicious behaviour to law enforcement agencies. The case has sparked fresh discussions around digital safety and the misuse of trust in online spaces. As Bengaluru continues to be a major tech hub with a highly connected population, authorities say awareness and timely reporting remain crucial to preventing such crimes.
