In Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, authorities arrested three individuals for exploiting the Grindr dating app, popular among the gay community, to commit extortion.
The suspects, identified as Rinku, Ajay, and Shubham, allegedly lured victims into a flat, engaged in sexual activities which they secretly filmed, and subsequently blackmailed them for money. Two additional suspects involved in the case are currently at large.
The arrests followed a police complaint filed by a victim who reported being blackmailed for Rs 1.40 lakh after his encounter, which he arranged through Grindr, was recorded without his consent.
Swatantra Kumar Singh, the Assistant Police Commissioner, detailed the police operation that led to the arrests. Based on the victim’s complaint, we launched an investigation and apprehended the accused at a checkpoint near NDRF road,” Singh explained. He also identified Rinku as the group’s ringleader.
During the arrest, the police seized three identity cards from Rinku, which listed him as an advocate, prompting an investigation into their authenticity. Additionally, three mobile phones and Rs 10,000 in cash were confiscated.
The police further discovered that this gang had rented the flat on January 2 and admitted to blackmailing others in similar setups. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of their criminal activities.
In light of the rising number of extortion cases involving dating platforms, Officer Singh urged the public to exercise caution online. “It’s crucial to verify the identity of those you meet online and to remain vigilant about potential risks,” he advised. This case is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with online interactions and the importance of maintaining privacy and safety in digital spaces.
