Honey trap gang busted in Davanagere; four arrested for blackmailing businessman

Davanagere: Police in Davanagere have busted an alleged honey trap gang that targeted a senior businessman and attempted to extort money by threatening to release compromising videos. Four accused persons have been arrested in connection with the case, police said.

The incident was reported within the jurisdiction of Vidyanagar Police Station in Siddaveerappa Layout. The arrested accused have been identified as Sushmita, Bekkina Kanu Krishna, Rahul and Channabasappa.

According to police, the victim is a 66-year-old businessman from Davanagere who was lured into the trap by a young woman who initially approached him seeking help. Superintendent of Police Shekhar H. Tekkannavar said the accused woman, aged 27, had earlier worked as a nurse at a private hospital and had befriended the businessman by claiming that she was in financial distress.

Over time, the acquaintance reportedly developed into a close friendship. Police said the woman then conspired with the other accused and planned the honey trap. The gang allegedly learned that the businessman was staying in a private apartment in Siddaveerappa Layout and went there to execute their plan.

Investigators said the accused secretly recorded a video involving the victim and later used it to threaten him. They allegedly showed the video to the businessman and demanded money, warning that the footage would be shared on social media and with media outlets if he refused to pay.

Two other accused persons also joined the meeting, claiming they would help settle the issue through a compromise. However, the group reportedly used the video to intensify pressure on the victim and demanded ₹25 lakh.

Fearing reputational damage, the businessman initially agreed to arrange ₹12 lakh and left the location. Later, the accused allegedly continued to threaten him through repeated phone calls.

Police said the victim was instructed to bring ₹1 lakh to Anjaneya Layout. When he arrived with the money, the accused allegedly snatched the cash and fled from the spot while continuing to demand more money.

Following a complaint, Vidyanagar police registered a case and launched an investigation, eventually arresting all four accused. Police have recovered ₹1 lakh from the suspects and seized their mobile phones for further examination.

The SP said preliminary investigation indicates it is a case of honey trapping and extortion. Police are continuing the probe to determine whether the gang targeted other victims as well.