Nagpur Bar Scam: Dating App Lure Leads to Rs 34,000 Extortion via QR Code
In a disturbing incident in Nagpur, a 35-year-old freelance project worker from Shahu Nagar fell victim to an elaborate scam after being allegedly lured to a bar and forced to pay an exorbitant bill of approximately Rs 34,000 through online QR code payment. The victim, who faced threats of blackmail and public humiliation, reported the matter to Sadar police, who have since received two additional similar complaints about the same establishment.
How the Scam Unfolded: From Dating App to Bar Trap
The complainant informed police that he had downloaded a dating app on his mobile device about two to three months prior to the incident. According to the FIR registered at Sadar police station, the event occurred on April 11 between 5:30 PM and 7:20 PM. On that day, a woman identifying herself as 'Tanu' contacted him via his mobile number and invited him to meet at LIC Chowk. From there, she escorted him to a nearby bar.
At the bar, Tanu proceeded to order expensive liquor and food items. When the victim requested the bill, he was shocked to see an amount of Rs 34,213. Police investigations revealed that the hotel maintained two separate menus—one with lower prices shown before ordering and another with significantly higher price tags used during billing.
Threats and Coercion Force Payment
When the victim protested the inflated amount, Tanu, along with her accomplices, allegedly subjected him to verbal abuse and issued severe threats. They reportedly told him, "Humko tere baare mein sab maloom hai. Tu bill nahi dega toh tere ghar par aur doston ko bata kar teri badnami karenge aur nanga karke bhejenge" (We know everything about you. If you don't pay the bill, we will defame you by informing your family and friends and send you exposed).
Fearing damage to his reputation, the victim was coerced into scanning the hotel's QR code and making an online payment of Rs 34,213. This method of payment left a digital trail that police are now examining as part of their investigation.
Police Action and Suspects Identified
Sadar police have named four accused in the FIR: Tanu, Akash Gajbhiye (the bar owner), manager Suupriya Gajbhiye, and waiter-cum-bouncer Ujwal Kumar Sudhanshu Raj. Ujwal was arrested on Monday, while owner Akash has been admitted to a hospital. Police sources indicate that Tanu is part of a larger network of women who similarly lure victims to LIC Chowk before taking them to the specific bar where they face heavily inflated charges.
Investigation Underway: Sadar police are actively investigating the matter, reviewing CCTV footage from both the bar and surrounding areas to identify and apprehend all involved parties. Authorities are also probing whether this incident is connected to a more extensive racket operating within Nagpur, given the pattern of complaints.
Broader Implications and Public Warning
This case highlights emerging trends in digital fraud where dating apps are used as bait for financial extortion. The use of QR codes for forced payments adds a modern twist to traditional overcharging scams. Police urge citizens to exercise caution when meeting strangers through online platforms and to report any suspicious activities immediately.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full scope of the operation and ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with digital interactions and the importance of vigilance in personal safety and financial transactions.
