Bengaluru Woman Extorted of Rs 17 Lakh Through Private Video Blackmail and Assault

A 32-year-old woman in Bengaluru was subjected to assault, blackmail, and financial extortion totaling over Rs 17 lakh by a man who threatened to release her private videos online.

Police officials reported that the victim first connected with the accused, Smaroop Gowda, on Facebook in 2022. Their relationship progressed as they exchanged contact information and began meeting regularly. Initially, Gowda portrayed himself as someone experiencing financial hardships due to ongoing legal proceedings and requested her financial assistance. Trusting his story, the woman provided him with Rs 4.42 lakh.

The situation deteriorated when Gowda began demanding additional funds, threatening to publish her private videos on the internet if she refused. Under duress, she eventually transferred an additional Rs 12.82 lakh to him, according to official statements.

When the victim attempted to recover her money, Gowda reportedly avoided all communication with her.

In her formal complaint, the woman detailed how Gowda physically assaulted her by pulling her hair and kicking her near Sunkadakatte bus stop within the city limits.

Officials further revealed that associates of Gowda approached the victim in August this year with an offer of Rs 2 lakh as settlement, while warning her against contacting law enforcement or pursuing legal action, threatening "dire consequences" if she proceeded.

The victim has requested authorities to take action against both Gowda and his associates for fraud, harassment, threats, and physical assault, while also seeking recovery of her extorted money.

Authorities have confirmed that a case has been registered against Gowda and an investigation is underway.