Kanpur Police Detain Eight Influencers Over Alleged Kidnapping Prank
In a shocking incident in Kanpur, police on Saturday detained eight influencers for allegedly kidnapping a 10-year-old boy and demanding a ransom, only to later claim it was a prank after the child was released approximately two hours later. The case has raised serious concerns about child safety and the misuse of social media influence for criminal activities.
Details of the Incident
According to DCP South Deependra Nath Chaudhary, the incident unfolded on the evening of February 11. The 10-year-old son of a resident from the Barra area went to a nearby market to buy vegetables. While there, two boys approached him and took him near a private school. At the location, they threatened the child and instructed him to call his mother, demanding Rs 2,00,000 as ransom.
The boy, in a state of distress, made the call to his mother while crying, conveying the ransom demand before the boys disconnected the line. This call caused immense anxiety and panic for his mother, prompting the family to immediately begin searching for the missing child.
Escalation and Resolution
Approximately 25 minutes after the initial call, another demand was made, this time for Rs 5,000 to be delivered near UP Kirana School. The situation took a bizarre turn around 9 PM when the boys called again, declaring that the entire episode was merely a prank. Following this revelation, the boy was allowed to return home safely.
Upon his return, the child recounted the entire ordeal to his mother. Despite efforts by the family to trace the perpetrators, they were unable to locate them at that time.
Police Investigation and Arrests
On February 12, the boy's mother filed a formal complaint at the Gujaini police station. Police promptly registered a case and launched a thorough investigation into the matter. As a result of their inquiries, eight individuals were taken into custody.
The detained persons include Arvind Singh from E-Block Kacchi Basti, Chadan Kumar from Jarauli, Lucky from Varun Vihar, and Shahid and Aman Katiyar from Barra 8, along with three minors. During the investigation, police discovered that Aman Katiyar had two prior theft cases registered against him, adding to the seriousness of the allegations.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the growing trend of pranks and stunts by social media influencers that cross legal and ethical boundaries. Authorities are emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and awareness campaigns to prevent such dangerous acts, which can cause severe psychological trauma to victims and their families.
The Kanpur police have assured the public that they are treating this case with utmost seriousness and will pursue legal action against all involved to ensure justice is served and to deter similar incidents in the future.
