Ahmedabad: In a stark reminder of the growing risks in the digital age, a case from Ahmedabad has exposed how social media platforms are increasingly being misused for cyber fraud.
A 48-year-old man from the Odhav area has alleged that he was duped of nearly ₹15 lakh over a period of three years through a honey-trap scheme. According to the complaint, three accused created a fake female profile, befriended him, and gradually extorted money under the pretext of marriage.
As per the victim’s statement, the incident began around three years ago when he came across a profile named ‘Nirju Nakarmi’ on the social media platform Facebook. The profile portrayed itself as a woman associated with modelling and later claimed to be divorced. Over time, regular conversations helped build trust between the two.
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Fake Profile and Pressure
Investigations have revealed that the accused—Sarabjit Singh Gyansingh Bharti, Ranveer Singh Gyansingh Bharti, and Sunil Harishankar Pandey—allegedly created and operated the fake account. It is suspected that the trio worked in coordination to emotionally manipulate the victim and lure him into their trap with a promise of marriage.
Initially, small amounts of money were demanded to avoid raising suspicion. According to the complaint, the victim first paid ₹15,000 in cash, believing it would be transferred to the woman. Gradually, the demands increased, citing various reasons such as travel expenses, personal financial needs, and marriage-related costs.
The victim stated that as his trust grew, he continued making payments in instalments, eventually handing over around ₹13.5 lakh. The accused allegedly maintained constant communication, reassuring him about marriage while continuing to seek financial help.
Extortion and Threats
The situation took a serious turn when the victim refused to make further payments. At this point, the accused allegedly began issuing threats, including implicating him in false criminal cases such as rape, and defaming him socially. Under pressure and fear, the victim was coerced into paying an additional ₹1.5 lakh, taking the total amount to approximately ₹15 lakh.
Suspicion arose when the victim reviewed the financial transactions. He reportedly discovered that the money was being circulated among the accused themselves rather than being used for any genuine purpose. When confronted, the accused allegedly escalated threats, including warnings of physical harm.
Eventually, the victim approached the police with the help of a family member and lodged a formal complaint. A case has been registered against the three accused under sections related to cheating, criminal conspiracy, extortion, and criminal intimidation. Authorities are now examining digital evidence, including chat records, bank transactions, and other electronic data.
Experts highlight that honey-trap and online fraud cases are on the rise, with criminals increasingly exploiting emotional vulnerabilities. By creating fake identities and building trust over time, fraudsters manipulate victims into transferring money. Delays in reporting such incidents often make investigations more challenging.
Cybersecurity experts advise users to exercise caution while interacting with unknown individuals on social media. Financial transactions should not be made without proper verification, and any suspicious activity should be reported immediately to authorities.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
