Amravati

Police have arrested a 19-year-old youth in Amravati district for allegedly luring women and girls and circulating their objectionable photos and videos online, officials said on Wednesday.

The case will be investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by Vishal Anand. The team comprises 11 police officers and 36 constables, and is being led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police.

Anil Bonde, who hails from Amravati, had earlier demanded an SIT probe.

The accused, identified as Ayan Ahmed Tanvir Ahmed, a resident of Paratwada, was taken into custody on April 11 after obscene pictures and videos allegedly involving him and several women and girls went viral on social media.

According to police, the victims appear to be minors. The accused allegedly lured them, recorded obscene photos and videos without consent, and uploaded them online to defame them.

Police have seized the accused’s mobile phone and are examining it for evidence.

A case has been registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and the Information Technology Act.

Officials said none of the victims has yet approached the police. Authorities have appealed to victims and their families to come forward, assuring that their identities will be protected.

Police said strict legal action would be taken.

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Speaking to reporters, Bonde alleged that others may also be involved and claimed a gang had created Snapchat and WhatsApp groups linked to such offences.