BENGALURU, 24 SEPT

A physical education teacher, Abay Mathew, has been booked following allegations of sexual exploitation, cheating on the pretext of marriage, and criminal intimidation.

The complainant, a divorcee with a daughter, stated she first met Mathew three to four years ago at her daughter’s school in Gottigere, where he worked as a cricket coach.

According to her complaint lodged on Tuesday, she confided in Mathew about her family problems. He allegedly assured her of support and arranged a rented house in the City, where they began living together as husband and wife. She claimed Mathew promised to marry her and, on that assurance, they engaged in sexual relations.

The victim alleged that on 20 September, 2025, when she requested marriage, Mathew abused her and threatened to harm her if she raised the matter again.

He then allegedly took her mobile phone and his belongings, left the house, and never returned, deceiving her. She also alleged that Mathew had hundreds of obscene videos.

Mathew, originally from Kerala, is currently on the run. In a video message, he stated he had gone to his native place for family matters and denied intending to cheat, claiming he planned to marry her.