According to a complaint filed at the CEN Crime Police Station, the incident took place between September 5 and October 18. The victim reportedly received a call from individuals claiming to represent a premium dating platform that offered introductions to “elite women.” They initially asked for a registration fee of ₹1,950, which the man paid online.
Soon after, the conmen sent him photographs of three women via WhatsApp and asked him to select one. The man chose a woman identified as “Ritika,” whose phone number was then shared with him. Over the following days, the two exchanged messages and grew close. Ritika promised to meet him soon but later claimed she would be unavailable during the Dasara festival as she was visiting her family.
During this time, another woman, “Preeti,” contacted the victim, claiming she was arranging Ritika’s visit and needed money for travel and accommodation logistics. Believing the story, the man transferred money multiple times to three different bank accounts. In total, he lost around ₹32.2 lakh.
When he refused to send more money, Preeti allegedly threatened him with legal action. Realising he had been duped, the victim approached the police and filed a complaint.
Police officials said an investigation is underway to trace the bank accounts and phone numbers used in the fraud. They have also urged citizens to remain cautious of online dating or “relationship” offers that demand money under any pretext.
“People should verify the authenticity of such services and avoid sharing personal or financial information with strangers online,” a police officer said, adding that cases of romance scams have been on the rise in recent months.
Authorities have reiterated that genuine dating or matchmaking platforms do not demand large payments or request money transfers for arranging meetings.
Tags:
Cybercrime
