New Delhi: In a dramatic rescue operation, Delhi Police saved a 20-year-old youth who had been abducted after being lured through an online friendship. Thanks to the swift and coordinated action by officers of PS Shakarpur, East District, the victim was traced and freed before the situation could turn more serious.
The case began when Ms. S, a resident of Ganesh Nagar-II in Shakarpur, contacted the police on July 3. She reported that her younger brother, Nikhil Pal alias Chetan, had gone missing after going to meet a girl he had been chatting with on WhatsApp for the past two months.
Later that day, she received a disturbing call from his number. An unidentified man, claiming to be the girl’s brother, told her that Nikhil had been caught in a compromising situation with the girl and would not be released. The caller abruptly ended the conversation and switched off the phone.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, the Station House Officer (SHO) of PS Shakarpur swiftly formed a dedicated team consisting of SI Anubhav, ASI Praveen Kumar Sharma, HC Rahul, HC Anurag, and Constable Naveen. With support from the Call Detail Records (CDR) Cell of East District, the police began tracking Nikhil’s phone location.
Initial leads pointed towards Sector-6, Noida, but a physical search of the area yielded no results. Soon after, the victim’s phone was turned on again, and the location was traced near Mayur Vihar Metro Station, close to the Yamuna Khadar area. The police team rushed to the spot immediately.
Upon reaching the location, the officers found a group of men assaulting the victim in a remote area. On seeing the police, the attackers attempted to escape, abandoning the victim and their motorcycles. One accused, who fell while fleeing, was captured. He was identified as Sanjeev Kumar Lohia, a 31-year-old resident of Trilokpuri, Delhi. A search of his person led to the recovery of Nikhil’s mobile phone.
Nikhil was safely rescued and immediately taken for medical evaluation at Dr. Hedgewar Hospital. During his statement, Nikhil revealed that he had met the girl, identified only as ‘K’, near Laxmi Nagar Metro Station that morning around 10:30 AM. She had persuaded him to accompany her to Indirapuram Mall.
On their return, a group of five men intercepted them and forcibly took him to a secluded location. There, he was beaten and subjected to threats, and calls were made to his family demanding silence. He alleged that ‘K’ was actively involved and had helped plan the entire incident.
The police believe the abduction was part of a pre-planned conspiracy. During questioning, Sanjeev confessed that he, along with accomplices Tarun, Akash, and others, had been plotting the kidnapping for more than two months. The gang used the girl as bait to trap the victim, with the intention of extorting money and intimidating him and his family.
A case has been registered under FIR No. 198/25 at PS Shakarpur under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including 140(3), 61(2), and 3(5). Further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the remaining accused, including the girl K, who is currently absconding.
Details of the Arrested Accused:
- Name: Sanjeev Kumar Lohia
- Age: 31 years
- Residence: Trilokpuri, Delhi
- Education: Completed 12th standard
- Occupation: Unemployed
Items Recovered:
- Victim’s mobile phone
- Two motorcycles used in the commission of the crime
Public Advisory:
The Delhi Police has issued a strong advisory to the public, particularly to the youth and parents, warning against the dangers of engaging with strangers over social media and messaging platforms.
People are urged to be cautious and never meet unknown individuals in private or unfamiliar locations. Informing a family member or trusted friend before going to meet someone new is crucial.
Parents are also advised to maintain an open dialogue with their children regarding their online activities. In case of any suspicious activity or distress, the public should immediately contact the police by dialling 112 or by visiting the nearest police station.
East Delhi Police reiterated their commitment to citizen safety and emphasized the importance of community vigilance. “Stay alert, stay safe, and report any suspicious activity without delay,” the statement added.
The timely and efficient response in this case not only ensured the victim’s safe return but also highlights the critical role of law enforcement in addressing cyber-related and social media-facilitated crimes.
