The victim, Sahil (name changed), a private company employee from north Bengaluru, had downloaded the dating app after browsing LGBTQ platforms online. The app charged a minimal fee of ₹1 for a three-day pass. Within a day, he was contacted by a user named “Sufi”, who revealed his face over a video call and asked Sahil to share his phone number for further conversation, as per the TOI report.
The two agreed to meet on July 5 in Govindpura. Sufi led Sahil to a shed near a paying guest accommodation in Vyalikaval Layout. Soon after they entered, a man claiming to be the shed’s owner stormed in and accused Sahil of engaging in illegal activity. He snatched Sahil’s phone while another man joined in and began assaulting him. Sufi, who had initiated the meeting, stood by as the attack unfolded.
When Sahil tried to escape, Sufi restrained him. It was then that Sahil realised Sufi was part of the group. The attackers demanded access to his digital wallet and threatened to kill him if he refused. Under duress, Sahil transferred ₹1,000. They further forced him to call friends and extract another ₹2,260 before allowing him to leave.
Distressed and fearing social stigma, Sahil initially chose not to report the incident. On July 9, he approached the police and filed a complaint. Based on his report, police arrested 26-year-old Sufiyan alias Sufi and his 24-year-old accomplice Mateen. A third suspect is absconding.
Investigators revealed that Sufiyan has a criminal background, including an attempted murder charge, and is known for using dating apps to target and extort individuals. The case has been registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 309 (robbery).(With inputs from TOI)
