In a concerning trend, the use of honey traps for extortion and blackmail appears to be on the rise. Delhi Police recently uncovered a gang employing honey traps to exploit and blackmail young individuals through Instagram. Here is a detailed account of their modus operandi.
The Elaborate Scheme Unveiled: Exploiting Innocence for Extortion
The gang, which has been operating discreetly, strategically created connections with approximately 50 young individuals. Subsequently, they engaged these unsuspecting victims in a sinister game, revealing the dark underbelly of online interactions.
A recent incident involved the apprehension of a young girl from the gang who had targeted a minor residing in Buddha Vihar.
The Honey Trap Unfolds: Fake Profiles, Deception, and Extortion
The victim, after filing a complaint, provided crucial information leading to the unfolding of the entire operation. It was revealed that the gang had successfully preyed on around 50 young people.
The accused girl initiated contact with the victim through a fake profile on Instagram. The façade involved liking the victim’s photos and initiating comments to establish a seemingly friendly connection.
Deceptive Ploys: Pretense of Friendship Turns into a Nightmare
Pretending to be a software engineer, the accused girl delved into inquiries about the victim’s business and income. Shockingly, she disclosed her intention to steal her mother’s three gold chains and suggested the victim meet at Signature Bridge on February 10.
Despite the victim’s initial refusal, the accused girl’s persistence led to an agreement. However, upon reaching the location, three more girls joined the scene.
The Horrific Turn: Assault, Extortion, and False Allegations
They assaulted the victim, forcibly took his clothes, and filmed a video making false allegations of sexual assault. Extorting a staggering 10 lakh rupees from the distressed youth, they further demanded an additional 10 lakh rupees from his friend during a phone call. Eventually, an agreement was reached for one lakh rupees.
Police Action and Ongoing Investigation: Unraveling the Extent of the Operation
Following the incident, the victim arrived at the designated spot, only to find the accused girl gone. Before disappearing, the gang had meticulously deleted chats, WhatsApp locations, and other incriminating evidence from the victim’s phone.
The police have detained the accused girl and launched a search for other members of the gang. Around 50 videos of different youths were discovered on her phone, intensifying the ongoing investigation.
A Cautionary Tale: Heightened Awareness in the Digital Age
This alarming episode sheds light on the need for heightened awareness and caution in online interactions, especially on social media platforms. The Delhi Police’s swift action serves as a reminder of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly harmless virtual connections.
