A serious case of honeytrap and blackmailing has come to light in Karnataka. Police have arrested Haniyuru Chandregowda, who is said to be a member of Ramanagara District Child Welfare Committee.
It is alleged that he established relationships with many women using false names and identities, recorded their personal videos and later blackmailed them and sexually exploited them. According to the police, the accused intimidated the women by calling himself sometimes a police officer, sometimes a lawyer and sometimes a media representative. Investigation has also revealed that he had even made fake ID cards to make his threats look credible.
More than 20 videos recovered from mobile
RR Nagar police said that more than 20 videos and photographs have been recovered from the mobile phone of the accused, which include recordings made with different women.
Victim made on the pretext of marriage
According to the police, in one case the accused contacted a woman who had recently separated from her husband and introduced himself as a lecturer. He claimed that he was divorced and would marry the woman. After winning her trust, he had physical relations with her and recorded the video without her knowledge. Later, through the same video, the accused threatened the woman and extorted Rs 5 lakh.
Secret revealed by checking phone
The victim became suspicious when she looked at the accused’s phone and found chats and videos with many other women. After this he lodged a complaint at RR Nagar police station. On the basis of the complaint, the police have registered the case and arrested the accused. Police say that the investigation of the case is ongoing and it is feared that more victims may come forward.
Police officials say that the presence of the accused in a sensitive post like Child Welfare Committee is very serious and the scope of legal action can be increased in the case. Further action will be taken after the investigation is completed.