The victim, identified as Anurag (name changed), has lodged a complaint with the GRP Rani Kamalapati Police Station. Police said the incident follows a similar case reported earlier in which a city businessman was defrauded of nearly ₹41,000, indicating that the scam is expanding in scale and frequency.

According to Anurag’s complaint, the incident began after he matched with a woman identifying herself as “Kavita” on the dating app Tinder. Their online interaction was brief, but she quickly agreed to meet in person. Before the meeting, she asked for ₹500 as travel expenses and shared a QR code that appeared to be registered in another name. Anurag did not make the payment, suspecting foul play.

Three days later, the woman contacted him again and suggested meeting at Bansal One, a commercial complex in the city. On reaching the location, she claimed to be new to Bhopal and insisted on visiting a specific bar—Rasta Café—despite Anurag suggesting alternative cafés and restaurants.

Once inside the bar, the woman allegedly ordered multiple expensive alcoholic drinks without his consent. Anurag stated that he objected repeatedly, citing the high prices, but his concerns were ignored. Even basic items such as drinking water were priced unusually high. Within a short time, the bill escalated to ₹32,888.

The woman then excused herself, saying she was going to the washroom, and did not return. When Anurag attempted to leave or locate her, bar staff allegedly restrained him and demanded immediate payment. Unable to clear the amount, he was asked to provide collateral. His Pulsar motorcycle was subsequently seized and remains with the bar, according to the complaint.

Station House Officer Mahendra Singh Somwanshi confirmed that a formal complaint has been registered and said the matter is under investigation. “At this stage, no conclusions can be drawn. We are verifying the roles of all parties involved,” he said.

Police sources said such scams typically involve fake dating profiles and coordinated efforts between individuals and certain establishments. Victims are often pressured into paying exorbitant bills or surrendering valuables.

Authorities have urged the public, particularly young app users, to exercise caution while meeting strangers, avoid advance payments, and report suspicious incidents promptly. Police say awareness and timely reporting are critical to preventing the spread of such frauds.