Mangaluru: A fresh case of alleged matrimonial fraud has emerged in the coastal city, with a woman from Bajpe accusing her husband of cheating, harassment and emotional exploitation after allegedly deceiving multiple women through social media while living abroad. The complainant, identified as Preeti (name changed), has lodged a formal complaint at the women police station against her husband Manish. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation.
Marriage complaint filed at women police station
According to the complaint, the couple came to know each other through social media and later married. The woman has alleged that the relationship was not entirely voluntary and that she was emotionally pressured into the marriage.
In her statement, she has accused her husband of sustained manipulation, financial deceit and mental harassment. Investigators have begun recording her detailed statement and collecting supporting material, including digital conversations and transaction details.
Officials confirmed that the matter is being treated as a cheating and harassment complaint and will proceed based on evidence gathered during the probe.
Online friendship turned into alleged coercion
As per the complaint, Preeti first connected with Manish through Facebook. What began as an online friendship gradually developed into a close personal relationship.
She has alleged that after gaining her trust, he began blackmailing her and pressuring her to agree to marriage. While specific details of the alleged threats have not been publicly disclosed, she told police that she felt compelled to proceed with the wedding due to sustained emotional pressure.
Her complaint states that the consent for marriage was obtained under distress rather than free choice.
Suicide drama and pre-wedding financial claims
The woman further alleged that just three days before the wedding, Manish staged a suicide threat episode, claiming he was under severe financial distress and unable to manage wedding responsibilities.
Fearing for his safety, her parents reportedly stepped in and bore the full wedding expenses. In addition, the family allegedly arranged about Rs 2 lakh to help him secure employment overseas.
Based on his assurances of stable work and future support, the marriage was completed. He later relocated to Dubai for a job opportunity.
Alleged affair abroad and hidden relationships
After moving abroad, his behaviour reportedly changed, leading to suspicion and disputes between the couple. The complainant has alleged that he entered into a relationship with another woman based in Bahrain.
She claims that her independent inquiries into his background revealed that he had allegedly been involved with several other young women even before the marriage.
Some of these women reportedly contacted her and shared that they too were emotionally involved with him and had given him money under various reasons.
Pattern of emotional and financial cheating alleged
According to the complaint, multiple women described a similar pattern — building trust online, seeking financial help, and later cutting off communication.
When repayment was demanded, he allegedly claimed to be suffering from serious illnesses such as a brain tumour or heart disease. After making such claims, he would reportedly end contact without returning the money.
The complainant has also alleged that he used platforms such as TikTok and other social media channels to approach and befriend women.
Investigators are expected to verify these claims by contacting individuals named in the complaint and examining digital records.
Probe underway
Police have begun a preliminary investigation, including review of chat records, bank transfers and social media activity. Further legal sections may be added depending on findings.
The complainant has stated that she does not wish to continue the marriage and has urged authorities to take firm action so that others do not fall victim to similar alleged deception.
The case highlights rising risks linked to online relationships and cross-border matrimonial arrangements, with officials advising caution and background verification before financial commitments.