Mumbai Police Issues Strong Denial Over Viral Child Trafficking Alert
Mumbai Police on Monday issued a firm clarification after widespread reports claimed the police force had sounded a high alert over an alleged surge in human trafficking cases involving minor children. The police department categorically denied all such assertions circulating across various media platforms and social networks.
What Exactly Did Mumbai Police Clarify?
In an official statement posted on the social media platform X, the Mumbai Police addressed the growing concerns directly. The statement read: "Certain social media handles are misrepresenting data and indulging in rumour-mongering regarding cases of missing and kidnapped children. We categorically deny these claims."
The police emphasized that deliberate steps are being taken against individuals who are spreading false information and attempting to create unnecessary public panic. The statement further added: "Action, including the registration of FIRs against those deliberately spreading false information and creating public panic, is under process."
Details of the Viral Message That Caused Panic
The viral message that triggered widespread alarm falsely alleged that 12 minor children had gone missing across seven different police station jurisdictions in Mumbai within just 36 hours. According to the unverified claims:
- Eight of these children were said to be girls aged between 8 and 15 years
- Four children were allegedly missing from Shivaji Park area
- Two children were reported missing from Antop Hill
- Three children were said to be missing from areas including Mankhurd and Bangur Nagar
The misleading message also suggested that kidnapping cases had been formally registered and hinted at the possible involvement of organized trafficking networks. This information spread rapidly across social media platforms, with many residents sharing the reports and urging authorities to issue an immediate red alert.
Public Reaction and Police Intervention
The comments sections on various social media posts reflected widespread public anxiety, with numerous citizens expressing concern and questioning why mainstream media had not given more prominence to what appeared to be a serious security issue. The growing panic and confusion eventually compelled the Mumbai Police to intervene officially and clarify the actual situation.
Police authorities dismissed all the circulating claims as pure "rumour mongering" and emphasized that no such spike in trafficking cases had occurred. They stressed that the viral information was completely baseless and unverified.
Official Advisory from Mumbai Police to Citizens
Mumbai Police have issued a clear advisory to all citizens regarding such situations:
- All claims circulating about increased child trafficking in Mumbai are completely baseless
- Citizens are urged not to believe or forward any unverified messages on social media platforms
- The public should rely only on official police updates through verified channels
- Sharing false alerts can create unnecessary panic and may invite legal action against those responsible
The police department has reinforced its commitment to maintaining public order and preventing the spread of misinformation that could disrupt social harmony and create unwarranted fear among citizens.
