Pune: A 28-year-old man has been arrested by Sinhagad Police station for allegedly duping his 'friend' of Rs five lakh just for impressing his girlfriend.

The suspect is identified as Rushikesh Mohan Bombale. His 'friend' Akshay Kaluram Dhavade has complained to Sinhagad police station against the suspect. According to senior police inspector Devidas Gheware, Rushikesh introduced himself to Akshay while playing cricket. In few days, the duo became good friends. Rushikesh told Akshay that he is surviving to find a new job. To help his friend, Akshay allowed Rushikesh to stay at his friend's house. He also gave his mobile phone and bike to use.

On December 16, when the duo was having breakfast, Rushikesh asked Akshay for the gold chain just to flaunt and impress his girlfriend and in no time, Rushikesh fled away from the spot.

According to the police, Rushikesh was changing his residence during the investigation. The suspect Rishikesh Bombale arrested is a history-sheeter and similar cases are registered against him at Chandannagar police station and Chikhali police station.

Police have seized a two-wheeler and a smartphone from the suspect. The accused mortgaged a gold chain to a reputed finance company to borrow a loan of Rs four lakh. Police are in the process of seizing the gold chain from the company.

Devidas Gheware, Senior Inspector of Police, Sinhagad Police Station said, "People should take proper care when helping strangers and making new friends. The finance companies should also check the required documents while availing loans to the customers."