Four Arrested in Bengaluru Kidnapping Linked to Ex-Girlfriend

A man who was reported missing has been rescued following the arrest of four suspects connected to a kidnapping scheme allegedly orchestrated by his ex-girlfriend. The incident unfolded in Bengaluru, where Lawrence Melwin, a former travel agency manager in Dubai, was abducted on July 14, 2023.

Melwin, in his 30s, had returned to Bengaluru six to seven months ago to care for his ailing father. Known for being an adept poker player, he is believed to have accumulated significant wealth through the game. His disappearance prompted alarm when his mother filed a missing person complaint at the Ashok Nagar police station on July 16, stating that Melwin had been unresponsive since leaving a hotel where he was staying temporarily.

Investigations revealed that Melwin had left with his former girlfriend, who had insisted on meeting him and arranged for a cab. As they traveled, the cab took an unexpected detour. At that point, two men entered the vehicle and allegedly assaulted Melwin, covering his face with a cloth mask. They seized his phone and bag, which contained cash, and coerced him into revealing his passwords.

The abductors took Melwin to a service apartment, where he was held captive for several days. During this time, they demanded a ransom of Rs 50 lakh for his release. Despite enduring confinement and physical abuse, Melwin managed to send a distress message to his family through a passerby who heard his cries for help. This crucial communication led the police to his location.

On July 23, police utilized technical surveillance and local intelligence to locate the service apartment and successfully rescued Melwin. The four suspects were arrested shortly thereafter. During interrogation, they confessed that Melwin’s former girlfriend had masterminded the abduction, collaborating with her accomplices.

Police are continuing their efforts to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in the plot. The case highlights the serious nature of personal disputes escalating into criminal activity, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in swiftly addressing such incidents.