How did Lucknow Police rescue the kidnapped girl from Instagram scammers?

Police created a fake event company profile on Instagram to lure the kidnappers, who had initially promised the girl work.

What were the false promises made to the 15-year-old victim?

The victim was promised easy income, brand exposure, and popularity through making Instagram reels.

Were the kidnappers caught by Lucknow Police?

Two of the three accused kidnappers were arrested on December 21st; one remains at large.

Home / Crime and Justice / Instagram Lure: Police Crack Kidnapping Ring

Instagram Lure: Police Crack Kidnapping Ring

23 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Girl abducted after being promised Instagram fame and money.
Police used a fake event company offer to trap the kidnappers.
Two kidnappers arrested, one still at large; victim was also raped.

Instagram Lure: Police Crack Kidnapping Ring

Lucknow Police successfully rescued a 15-year-old girl who was abducted after being deceived with promises of fame and earnings through Instagram reel-making. The perpetrators, adults themselves, lured the minor with offers of easy income and popularity via short-form video content.

Investigators devised a clever counter-strategy, creating a fake event management company profile on Instagram to attract the kidnappers. This tactic successfully drew the accused into re-establishing contact with undercover officers, leading to the arrest of two individuals, Rohit Kumar and Manish Rastogi, on December 21st. A third suspect, Ritik, is currently absconding.

The victim, in her statement, detailed the ordeal, including the false promises and subsequent rape. The incident highlights the vulnerability of young individuals to online exploitation and the innovative methods law enforcement employed to ensure her safe return.