In a shocking case of emotional manipulation and financial fraud, Bengaluru Police have arrested a 32-year-old sales executive for allegedly swindling a woman of approximately ₹17 lakh over a two-year period under the pretence of marriage.
The accused, Naveen Kumar, a resident of Kothanur and employee at a private firm, stands charged with systematically extracting money from the victim through a web of lies and false promises.
The Anatomy of a Heartbreaking Scam
According to police reports, the fraudulent relationship began in 2021 when Kumar met the victim through a mutual friend. What started as casual acquaintance quickly evolved into romantic overtures, with Kumar repeatedly assuring the woman of his intention to marry her.
The modus operandi was both calculated and cruel:
- Kumar fabricated multiple financial emergencies to justify his repeated monetary requests
- He claimed his mother required urgent medical treatment
- He asserted he needed funds for his sister's wedding arrangements
- The accused promised to return all borrowed money after their marriage
The Unraveling of Deception
The victim's suspicions were finally aroused when Kumar began avoiding her and making excuses to postpone their wedding indefinitely. When she confronted him about repaying the substantial sum, he severed all communication.
It was at this point that the devastated woman approached the Kothanur police station and filed an official complaint, detailing the two-year ordeal and providing evidence of the financial transactions.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Following a thorough investigation, authorities tracked down and arrested Naveen Kumar from his residence. Police have confirmed that the accused has been charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cheating and criminal breach of trust.
"This case serves as a stark reminder about the importance of financial caution in relationships," stated a police official involved in the investigation. "Emotional manipulation combined with financial exploitation creates a devastating combination for victims."
Protecting Yourself from Relationship Fraud
This incident highlights the growing concern about relationship-based financial scams in urban centers. Experts recommend:
- Maintaining financial boundaries in new relationships
- Being wary of repeated financial requests, regardless of the justification
- Verifying emergency situations before providing monetary assistance
- Seeking advice from trusted friends or family members when large sums are involved
The investigation continues as police work to determine if there are other victims involved in similar schemes by the accused.
