Vijayawada police bust dating app robbery gang; key accused on run

Vijayawada: In a shocking case that has raised serious concerns over the misuse of dating applications, the Bhavanipuram police in Vijayawada busted a robbery gang that allegedly targeted unsuspecting men by using fake profiles of women on dating apps, luring victims to isolated places and extorting money after assaulting them.

The case came to light after a mobile phone shop owner from Ibrahimpatnam approached the police with a complaint. According to investigators, the victim was contacted through a fake dating profile that used a woman’s photograph to gain his trust. After several conversations, the victim was allegedly called to a deserted location in Gollapudi on the outskirts of Vijayawada.

Police said the victim was suddenly surrounded by gang members, brutally beaten with sticks and threatened with dire consequences. The accused allegedly robbed him of nearly Rs 40,000 before fleeing the spot. The victim later managed to approach the police, leading to a detailed investigation.

During the probe, police identified the accused as Pandu, Subhani and Udhay Kumar. Officials confirmed that Pandu and Subhani were taken into police custody and are currently being interrogated. However, the alleged mastermind of the gang, Udhay Kumar, is absconding, and special police teams have launched a search operation to trace and arrest him.

Investigators suspect the gang may have been involved in several similar crimes in and around Vijayawada. Police sources said the accused allegedly created multiple fake dating profiles to trap men and extort money for quick earnings. Officials also suspect that some members of the gang were addicted to ganja and may have committed the crimes to fund their addiction.

Police have advised the public, especially youngsters, to exercise caution while interacting with strangers through dating applications and social media platforms.