Bengaluru: A 31-year-old private firm employee from Yelahanka New Town has filed a police complaint alleging that he was subjected to years of blackmail, extortion, coercion and severe mental harassment by a group of friends, beginning in 2018. According to the FIR, the prime accused had secretly recorded a private video of the complainant’s late mother and used it to threaten and control him for several years.
Hidden camera used to film complainant’s mother
Bengaluru police said the incident dates back to 2018, when the prime accused, identified as Prashanth B.R, began living at the complainant’s residence in Thindlu. During his stay, Prashanth allegedly installed a hidden camera in the bathroom and recorded a video of the complainant’s mother. She passed away a few days later.
The complainant has stated that Prashanth later showed him the video and threatened to circulate it on social media if he did not comply with the demands being made. This, according to police, became the starting point of a long period of coercion and abuse.
Years of blackmail, abuse and forced acts
Over the next several years, the complainant was allegedly compelled to follow instructions under threat of the video being leaked. The FIR states that the accused and his associates extorted money—over ₹50,000—and allegedly forced the victim into humiliating acts, including public indecency, which they also recorded.
The complainant further stated that he was pressured to supply drugs to the accused’s acquaintances and was forced to consume narcotics on several occasions. Police said that he was also coerced into posing for inappropriate photographs and videos. The FIR mentions that the group allegedly seized his Aadhaar, PAN, bank papers and other personal documents as part of the intimidation.
According to the police, the victim attempted suicide multiple times over the years due to the continuous harassment and threats. The alleged abuse reportedly continued from 2018 to 2024, causing significant mental distress.
Police register case; investigation underway
Yelahanka New Town Police have registered a case after the complainant submitted his statement and supporting evidence. A total of 11 individuals, including the prime accused, have been named in the FIR.
A senior investigating officer told DH that the case has been registered under the following provisions:
- Information Technology Act, 2000
• Section 66(E) – Violation of privacy - Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
• Section 115(2) – Assault or use of criminal force with intent to dishonour
• Section 308(2) – Attempt to commit culpable homicide (aggravated)
• Section 351(3) – Criminal intimidation (aggravated)
Police have started gathering digital evidence, financial records and testimonies to corroborate the victim’s claims. Officers stated that the investigation is in progress and further action will be taken as more details emerge.
Conclusion
The case highlights yet another troubling instance of long-term coercion and cyber-enabled blackmail leading to severe psychological trauma. Bengaluru police have assured a thorough probe, while counselling support has been recommended for the victim. Further arrests and charges are expected as the investigation moves forward.