The gang in Surat, Gujarat, has been apprehended for allegedly using the name ‘Raj’ as a deceptive persona on a gay dating application. This tactic was aimed at luring men into secluded spots where they would be ambushed and robbed. Authorities reported the arrest of two men and the detention of a juvenile linked to this criminal operation.

Investigations revealed that the suspects created a fraudulent profile under the name ‘Raj’ on the “POLO Gay Dating & Chat” app. By interacting with unsuspecting users, they manipulated their victims into meeting them in isolated areas, where they assaulted and robbed them.

The gang reportedly ensnared at least three men in a span of just 15 days, indicating a targeted and systematic approach to their crimes.

Victim Reports Assault to Police

The most recent incident was reported by a fruit vendor who approached the police. After downloading the app, he started conversing with a user named ‘Raj.’ Following several exchanges, ‘Raj’ invited the victim to an under-construction building on June 28. Upon arrival, he was allegedly ambushed by ‘Raj’ and two accomplices who were already present.

The trio reportedly assaulted the victim, confiscated his mobile phone, cash, and coerced him into transferring Rs 1,000 through Google Pay. They allegedly threatened him before fleeing the scene. Initially, the victim hesitated to lodge a complaint due to fear and social stigma related to the situation.

Encouraged by family members, he later decided to report the incident to the police, prompting a rapid response from authorities.

Police Swiftly Arrest Suspects and Recover Stolen Goods

Upon receiving the complaint, the police swiftly employed technical surveillance, including tracking mobile phone data, reviewing CCTV footage, and utilising human intelligence. These efforts culminated in the identification and capture of the suspects within hours.

The individuals arrested have been named as Sushant and Somraj Gameti, while the juvenile’s identity remains undisclosed. Investigators were able to recover the complainant’s stolen mobile device, cash, and two additional phones that belonged to the accused.

During interrogations, both adults reportedly confessed to conducting similar robberies at the same site, further indicating a pattern of their criminal activities targeting individuals they met through the dating app. Authorities are currently expanding their investigations to ascertain if there are additional victims who may have fallen prey to this gang.

This incident in Surat adds to previous reports of similar crimes in Gujarat, notably an incident from the Surendranagar district a month prior. In that case, a 44-year-old man was also lured via the same dating app and subsequently assaulted and extorted for Rs 31,000 by a gang that threatened to publish explicit photographs online.

The common thread in both incidents underscores the need for increased awareness regarding the potential dangers associated with online dating platforms and the measures that can be taken to ensure user safety.

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