Mohali Police File FIR After 26 Child Exploitation Files Found on Gmail Accounts
In a significant cyber crime development, police in Mohali have registered a formal case following the discovery of 26 objectionable files, including content linked to child sexual exploitation, that were circulating through two Gmail accounts. The case was initiated based on a crucial tip-off received through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), an organization that has been consistently flagging such disturbing instances to authorities worldwide.
Cyber Police Launch Investigation Under IT Act
Acting promptly on the alert from NCMEC, the cyber police unit launched a preliminary inquiry that led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 67-B of the Information Technology Act, 2000. This specific section deals comprehensively with offences related to child sexual abuse material distributed online, carrying severe penalties for violators.
According to detailed information from investigators, the two Gmail accounts in question were being used to upload objectionable content directly to Google Drive. During meticulous digital scrutiny, police successfully recovered 26 files from these accounts, consisting of 24 photographs and two videos. Shockingly, 10 of the photographs and both videos were confirmed to contain explicit child sexual exploitation and abusive material, commonly referred to as CSEAM in law enforcement circles.
Technical Analysis Traces Digital Footprints to Patiala
The investigation, spearheaded by inspector Manpreet Kaur, involved sophisticated technical analysis of digital footprints left by the accounts. Police obtained crucial details of IP addresses linked to the accounts from Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). These digital trails were meticulously traced back to a landline connection registered in the name of a resident of Ladhaheri village in Patiala district.
Further examination of the customer application form (CAF) for the mobile number associated with the Gmail accounts revealed it was registered under the same individual's name. Authorities issued a formal notice to Google, following which the technology giant confirmed that both Gmail accounts were indeed being operated using the identified mobile number.
FIR Registered Against Unidentified Accused as Investigation Continues
While police conclusively determined that a cognisable offence had been committed under Section 67-B of the IT Act, the FIR has been registered against an unidentified accused at this stage. This procedural step was taken because physical verification of the suspect is still actively underway, requiring careful coordination between multiple agencies.
Officials confirmed that specialized teams are working diligently to confirm both the identity and involvement of the person linked to the substantial digital evidence collected so far. The investigation remains in progress, with authorities pursuing multiple leads to establish a comprehensive case.
Rising Trend of Online Child Exploitation Cases
Police officials also highlighted a concerning rise in similar cases within their jurisdiction, noting that more than eight FIRs have already been registered in recent months specifically related to the online circulation of child sexual exploitation material. This alarming trend has prompted authorities to intensify their monitoring and enforcement efforts significantly.
Law enforcement agencies have implemented enhanced technological surveillance and collaborative mechanisms with international organizations like NCMEC to curb the spread of such illegal and harmful content. The Mohali case underscores the critical importance of global cooperation in combating digital crimes against children, as offenders increasingly exploit borderless online platforms for nefarious activities.
