The dating app scam that rocked the city had resurfaced again — but this time, swift police action followed mid-day’s recent exposé. Acting on the detailed report published in May, the Malad and MHB Colony police registered fresh FIRs. The latter then launched a coordinated crackdown in their case, raiding hotels in Thane and Navi Mumbai and arresting 22.

Modus operandi exposed

The nuts and bolts of the racket were brought to light when mid-day carried out an in-depth sting operation in August last year, revealing how women on dating apps lured men to upscale clubs and lounges. Once inside, the victims were coerced into paying exorbitant fake bills under pressure from planted staff and fake bouncers, who would issue threats and use intimidation tactics. Following the initial exposé, police had dismantled the racket. But the scam silently resurfaced across Malad and adjoining suburbs, once again targeting unsuspecting men using dating platforms.