Dating app scam targeting youth in Bhopal:Tinder meeting leads to bar trap; victim’s bike seized after being caught in the ‘Drunken Girl Scam’

Bhopal police are investigating a growing trend of frauds targeting men through dating apps like Tinder, commonly referred to as the “Drunken Girl Scam.”
In these incidents, victims are lured into bars under the pretext of casual dating, coerced into ordering expensive drinks, and then forced to pay hefty bills. In the latest case, not only was a young man defrauded of Rs 32,888, but his motorcycle was also confiscated when he could not pay. Earlier, a businessman in the city fell victim to a similar scheme and was cheated of Rs 41,000. The current case shows that the scam is widening, following a recurring pattern of using dating apps as a lure. The victim, identified as Anurag (name changed), has filed a complaint with the GRP Rani Kamalapati Police Station. Tinder meeet with ‘Kavita’ turns into a pre-planned trap According to Anurag, the scam began a week ago when he matched with a girl named “Kavita” on the Tinder app. The online conversation was brief, consisting of only two to three messages. Surprisingly, Kavita agreed to meet him in person. Thinking it was a normal dating arrangement, Anurag consented to meet her. Even before their first meeting, Kavita requested ₹500 for travel expenses. She sent a QR code for payment, which Anurag noticed belonged to someone else. Suspecting a scam, he did not transfer any money. Three days later, Kavita contacted him again and suggested meeting at Bansal One, a commercial complex in Bhopal. Anurag arrived at the agreed location, where Kavita claimed to be new in the city. She then took him to a bar inside the complex called Rasta Café. Refusal to visit other cafes raises alarm Anurag tried offering several other cafes and restaurants, but Kavita insisted on visiting only the Rasta Café. Upon entering, she immediately ordered expensive alcoholic drinks without waiting for his consent. Despite Anurag explaining the high costs and refusing multiple times, she insisted, citing that it was their first date and that it was a “good place.” Even water at the bar was priced at Rs 110. Within a short period, multiple drinks had been ordered, and the total bill soared to Rs 32,888. Kavita then excused herself, saying she was going to the restroom, and never returned. When Anurag attempted to locate her, the bar staff cornered him, demanding immediate payment and claiming that the bar was fully booked and busy. Victim’s bike seized, police investigate Unable to pay the bill, Anurag was told that collateral would be required. Ultimately, his Pulsar motorcycle was seized and is still in the possession of the bar. Feeling trapped and cheated, Anurag filed a complaint with the GRP Rani Kamalapati Police Station, prompting a police investigation into the scam. Station Officer Mahendra Singh Somwanshi confirmed receiving the complaint and stated that a thorough investigation is underway. He cautioned that no official conclusion could be drawn at this stage. Scam pattern raises concerns Police sources have warned that this scam is growing across urban areas in India. Fraudsters create fake profiles on dating apps, lure unsuspecting victims to bars or restaurants, and use accomplices or bar staff to enforce payment. Often, victims are threatened with confiscation of personal belongings if they refuse to pay. The Bhopal case highlights the need for awareness among youth regarding online dating and caution while meeting strangers. Authorities are urging anyone facing similar situations to immediately report to the police and avoid transferring money or agreeing to unusual demands. Advice for public With dating apps becoming increasingly popular, police believe education and vigilance are the first lines of defense against such scams, ensuring that incidents like the “Drunken Girl Scam” do not spread further.