Dating App Nightmare: Mumbai Man Robbed After Online Meet-Up Takes Terrifying Turn

A chilling incident in Mumbai serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly innocuous online interactions. A 22-year-old man, seeking companionship on a popular gay dating application, found himself ensnared in a terrifying ordeal that stripped him of his belongings and, more significantly, his sense of security.

The harrowing sequence of events began innocently enough.

The victim, whose identity remains protected for privacy, connected with an individual named Anil on the dating platform. After several exchanges, they decided to meet in person, a common progression in the world of online dating. However, what started as a promise of a romantic encounter quickly devolved into a calculated act of robbery.

According to police reports, Anil initially suggested a meeting point.

Later, he altered the plans, directing the 22-year-old to a secluded location in the Saki Naka area – a crucial red flag that, in hindsight, might have warned of impending danger. Unsuspecting, the victim proceeded to the new address, anticipating a pleasant evening.

Upon his arrival, the situation took a sinister turn.

The alleged date, Anil, was present, but he was not alone. Two accomplices emerged, surrounding the victim and instantly escalating the encounter into a nightmare. He was forcibly confined, his freedom abruptly stolen, and subjected to threats that instilled immediate fear.

The perpetrators then embarked on their premeditated plan: extortion.

They coerced the terrified victim into transferring a significant sum of money using Unified Payments Interface (UPI). In a further act of theft, his mobile phone and laptop, valuable personal possessions, were also snatched. This ordeal, undoubtedly traumatic, left the young man shaken and violated.

After enduring the ordeal, the victim was eventually released.

He immediately sought help, approaching the Saki Naka police station to report the crime. Authorities swiftly registered a First Information Report (FIR) based on his detailed account. The case has been filed under several pertinent sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 392 (for robbery), Section 342 (for wrongful confinement), and Section 34 (for acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention), signaling the serious nature of the offenses committed.

This incident underscores the critical importance of exercising extreme caution when meeting strangers from online dating platforms.

Experts consistently advise individuals to choose public places for initial meetings, inform friends or family about their whereabouts, and trust their instincts. While online platforms offer avenues for connection, this case is a stark reminder that vigilance and personal safety should always remain paramount.