Govt clerk honey trapped, blackmailed

Hyderabad: A govt clerk posted in Hyderabad’s Khairatabad ration circle fell victim to an alleged honey-trap and extortion racket that operated for nearly three years, triggering a police investigation in the Panjagutta area.According to Panjagutta ACP, the clerk had come in contact with a woman named Lakshmi (35), and the acquaintance later developed into a personal relationship. During one of their meetings at a hotel room, the woman allegedly recorded private photos and videos of the official without his knowledge.The ACP said the woman later used the intimate visuals to blackmail the clerk, threatening to upload them on social media if he refused to pay. Fearing public embarrassment and damage to his reputation, the clerk allegedly continued to pay large sums over the years. So far, he paid around Rs ₹2.5 lakh.Police also said the victim was subjected to severe mental harassment following repeated demand for money. The clerk recently approached the Panjagutta police and lodged a formal complaint against the woman.Based on the complaint, the police registered a case under relevant sections and launched an investigation. Officials are also examining whether others were involved in the operation and if more victims may have been targeted in a similar manner.