Moradabad police dismantled a honey trap gang, arresting three individuals, including a Uttar Pradesh-112 head constable, Rizwan Beg, for orchestrating a sinister extortion scheme. The gang, which also included Iqra and Faisal, allegedly lured victims into compromising situations, secretly recording explicit videos to blackmail them. A fourth suspect, Babar, remains at large, with police intensifying efforts to apprehend him.

The operation came to light after a Sambhal district resident filed a complaint, detailing how the gang extorted Rs 35,000 through multiple bank accounts by threatening to frame him in a false rape case using an objectionable video. The group later demanded Rs 5 lakh, escalating their threats. Circle Officer (Katghar) Ashish Pratap Singh confirmed the arrests, stating that the trio has been sent to jail while the search for Babar continues.

Police revealed the gang’s modus operandi: a female accomplice, believed to be Iqra, would entice victims via social media or phone calls, luring them to a location—often a hotel—where compromising footage was recorded. Accomplices, including Constable Rizwan, would then pressure victims with threats of public exposure or fabricated legal charges. The involvement of a serving police officer has sparked outrage, raising questions about corruption within the force.

Also Read: NDA Launches Joint Drive Ahead of Bihar Polls

The investigation uncovered Rs 50,000 in cash and four mobile phones used in the crime, with authorities suspecting additional victims may be hesitant to come forward due to fear of stigma. This isn’t the first honey trap case in Moradabad; a similar racket was busted in July, with four arrests, including two women, for extorting a retired employee. Police are now probing potential links between the cases and urging the public to report suspicious contacts.

As the community reels from the scandal, authorities have vowed to crack down on such rackets, emphasizing vigilance against social media traps. The case highlights the growing menace of honey trap gangs in Uttar Pradesh, exploiting trust for profit and leaving victims in distress.

Also Read: Trinamool Leader Sues Rape Victim’s Father for Defamation