Inter-state bridal fraud gang busted in Uttar Pradesh; seven arrested

Authorities in Azamgarh's Bardhah police district have broken up an organized inter-state gang specializing in matrimonial fraud, resulting in the arrest of seven individuals including five men and two women. The criminal network targeted bachelor grooms by arranging marriages at temples, only to have the bride absconded with cash and valuables along with accomplices posing as family members. Police said the scheme involved meticulous coordination among gang members, with family relations used as cover to establish trust with victims before executing the fraud. The gang operated across multiple districts, suggesting a well-established operation that had likely victimized numerous unsuspecting grooms over an extended period. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the gang's criminal activity and identify additional victims. Police have appealed to prospective grooms to exercise caution during matrimonial arrangements and verify family backgrounds thoroughly before proceeding with marriages.