The rise of social media scams has taken another alarming turn in Pune, where a young man fell victim to an online extortion scheme orchestrated by a gang exploiting Instagram friendships. According to police, the culprits initially built trust with the victim by pretending to develop a romantic connection before forcibly demanding money.

The incident came to light after a 28-year-old man reported that he had formed an acquaintance with a 17-and-a-half-year-old girl on Instagram. Their online chats quickly evolved into a close friendship, and she soon expressed a desire to meet him in person. The meeting was arranged in the Katraj area, after which the girl suggested visiting Katraj Ghat.

On the way, the girl asked him to stop his motorcycle at a specific location, where her accomplices,

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