A 14-year-old girl was allegedly manipulated through a fake Instagram account and convinced to steal gold jewellery worth nearly ₹15 lakh from her home, police said.
According to investigators, the Class 9 student had been emotionally distressed after failing her examinations and facing restrictions imposed by her parents. During this period, she allegedly came in contact online with a 17-year-old girl who was reportedly operating a fake Instagram profile.
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Police said the accused gradually gained the minor’s trust and allegedly persuaded her to steal gold ornaments from her house under the pretext that the money would be used for “studies”.
The stolen jewellery was allegedly sold with the assistance of Rafiq Sheikh, a 35-year-old man from Ponda, who has since been arrested by police.
Initially, the victim had reportedly claimed that the jewellery was stolen while travelling in a bus. However, scrutiny of her mobile phone later revealed conversations linked to the fake Instagram account, exposing the alleged conspiracy.
Police said both minors involved in the case have been sent to Apna Ghar, while further investigation is underway.
