Mumbai: Trombay police arrest duo over fake videos

Screenshot of accused Irfan spreading false information in the video. Pic/Rajesh Gupta

The Trombay police registered a case against two individuals for producing videos containing false information and disseminating rumours to create public panic. The police have detained the accused, and an investigation is underway. The information about a circulating WhatsApp video, spreading rumors, was reported to the Trombay police on January 24.

"Upon receiving information about the circulating video on social media, our investigative team initiated an inquiry and determined the content to be false. Consequently, we apprehended two individuals, Irfan Ibrahim Shaikh, 30, the creator of the video, and Vijay Panrang Sandge, 42, who shared the information with Irfan. Both individuals are residents of Trombay," said Hemraj Rajput, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone 6.

The two videos that went viral on social media were created by Irfan, stating that a vehicle loaded with weapons was spotted near Anushakti Nagar and entering Trombay. In the first video, he advised people to stay safe, remain alert, and avoid leaving their homes, accompanied by the tagline "High alert Cheeta Camp, Stay home, Stay Safe." The second video assured that the police were tracking the vehicle, urging people not to panic. Instead, they were advised to inform their relatives and friends, and stay vigilant.

During police interrogation, it was revealed that Vijay shared the information with Irfan without verifying the facts. Irfan, a graduate, created the video from his office in Malad, where he was employed. "Upon questioning Vijay about the source of the information, he asserted that his 16-year-old son provided it. The credibility of information from a minor raises concerns. Nevertheless, the investigation revealed the information to be false, leading to the detention of both individuals for the crime," said the police officer.

The DCP further appealed to the citizens that no one should post offensive photos, videos, or statuses on social media that spread rumours and create religious or social discord. "Citizens should be vigilant about such photos, videos and statuses and inform the police about such posts without asking for them. Strict legal action will be taken against those who post such offensive photos, videos and statuses on social media," DCP added.