The Mumbai Police on Monday issued a clarification after reports claimed that the force was on high alert over an alleged rise in human trafficking involving minors. The police said they “categorically deny” the claims circulating in the media and on social platforms.
What did the Mumbai police say about the viral claims?
In a statement published on X, the police said: “Some manipulations on social networks distort data and indulge in spreading rumors about cases of missing and abducted children. We categorically reject these claims.”
Police said they are taking action against individuals who “deliberately spread false information and create public panic”.
“Action is underway, including registration of FIR against those who are deliberately spreading false information and creating public panic,” the statement added.
What did the viral message claim?
The viral report falsely claimed that 12 minors — including eight girls aged between 8 and 15 — had gone missing in seven jurisdictions of Mumbai police stations within 36 hours.
According to false claims, four children were said to be missing from Shivaji Park, two from Antop Hill and three from areas like Mankhurd and Bangur Nagar. The report also claimed that cases of kidnapping had been recorded and indicated the involvement of organized human trafficking networks.
Several residents went on to send out messages urging authorities to issue a red alert. Comment sections of social media posts reflected widespread public concern, with many questioning why the media had not highlighted the issue more prominently.
The growing panic prompted the police to intervene and clarify the situation. The Mumbai Police dismissed the claims as “rumour-mongering”.
What do the police advise citizens?
The Mumbai Police clarified that all such claims are baseless and urged people not to believe and pass unverified reports on social media. Authorities have asked citizens to rely only on official police updates, warning that sharing false alerts could cause panic and trigger legal action.