A 29-year-old software engineer from Bengaluru has filed a police complaint. She claims a man duped her of more than Rs 1.53 crore. The man allegedly promised marriage while asking for investments in his business ventures.
Police Register FIR Against Three Accused
The Kengeri Police registered a First Information Report on January 6. They named Vijay Raj Gowda, his father Boregowda UJ, and his wife Soumya as accused. The case falls under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
How the Alleged Fraud Unfolded
The woman met Vijay Raj Gowda on a matrimonial website in March 2024. Gowda presented himself as a successful businessman. He said he ran VRG Enterprises and owned properties in upscale Bengaluru areas like Koramangala and Sadashivanagar.
To build trust, Gowda mentioned a 2019 Enforcement Directorate case against him. He claimed his assets were frozen and that he owned properties worth Rs 715 crore. The two started a relationship and discussed marriage plans.
The Financial Transactions Begin
The alleged fraud started in April 2024. Gowda said he had issues with his bank account. He first asked for Rs 15,000 for an urgent matter. Later, he persuaded her to invest in various business ventures. He promised high returns on these investments.
Trusting his promises, the engineer transferred Rs 1.53 crore through several transactions. Gowda also introduced his father and a woman named Soumya. He claimed Soumya was his sister. They met near Kengeri Metro Station, where the promise of marriage and business opportunities was reinforced.
Delays and Discovery of the Truth
When Gowda repeatedly delayed returning the money, he shared fabricated court orders. These documents claimed his accounts were frozen. The complainant's family then started investigating.
They discovered that Soumya was actually Gowda's wife. The couple had been married for three years and had one child. The complainant alleges Gowda took Rs 1.75 crore from her in total. He only returned Rs 22 lakh, leaving a massive shortfall.
Current Status of the Case
The police report that the accused and his family are currently absconding. Authorities registered the case under specific BNS sections:
- Section 61(2) for criminal conspiracy
- Section 318(4) for cheating
- Section 316(2) for criminal breach of trust
- Section 351(3) for criminal intimidation
Further investigation is now underway. This case highlights the risks associated with online relationships and financial transactions with strangers.
