Dating App Trap: Travelers extorted in Lucknow

Police in Lucknow have apprehended a gang accused of exploiting travelers by using the dating app Grindr to orchestrate extortion schemes. The group allegedly targeted outstation visitors arriving at railway stations, promising them accommodation near Charbagh and Aishbagh. Victims were then led to isolated locations where they faced threats, assault, and blackmail.

During these encounters, victims were compelled to transfer money via UPI and Google Pay. In some instances, victims reported being given laced drinks, leading to a loss of consciousness. Their mobile phones were subsequently damaged to prevent immediate reporting. One complainant, Sudhakar Pal, detailed being assaulted and forced into multiple digital transactions after arriving for an examination.

The investigation led to the arrest of eight individuals, including alleged mastermind Dhirendra Pratap Singh, near Aishbagh railway station on August 15, 2026. Recovered mobile phones contained evidence of digital money transfers and videos of other individuals, suggesting a wider network of victims. Further technical analysis is ongoing.