Pune Police Debunk Viral Claim of ‘123 Girls Kidnapped in 22 Hours'

Pune: Pune Police have clarified that a viral social media claim alleging that 123 girls were kidnapped in Pune within 22 hours is baseless and unsupported by any evidence found so far.

The clarification came after a reel and an audio clip carrying the claim were widely circulated on social media, creating concern among citizens. Taking cognisance of the viral content, Pune Police conducted a detailed verification through concerned police stations, the Crime Branch and other available channels.

Police Verify Viral Audio Claim

As part of the verification, police contacted the person who had recorded the audio clip and sought information regarding the claim.

Police also contacted office-bearers and management of the concerned housing society, neighbours and other relevant individuals to establish the facts behind the viral message.

According to Pune Police, no concrete information, official record or evidence has been found so far to establish that 123 girls were kidnapped in Pune city during a 22-hour period.

Based on the verification conducted so far, police described the viral reel and audio clip as factually unsupported and baseless.

Investigation Still Underway

While rejecting the viral claim, Pune Police said a detailed inquiry into the matter is continuing.

Police stated that if any new information or evidence emerges during the inquiry, appropriate legal action will be taken and further information will be released as required.

Authorities have cautioned that circulating unverified claims on social media can create unnecessary fear, confusion and misunderstanding among citizens.

Citizens Urged Not to Forward Unverified Messages

Pune Police have appealed to citizens not to believe or forward false, unverified or misleading information circulating through reels, audio clips and other social media posts.

Citizens have been advised to rely on official and verified Pune Police channels before sharing information concerning crime or public safety.

Police have also urged anyone with information about an actual incident, suspicious activity or a potentially missing person to immediately contact the nearest police station or Pune Police.

The department reiterated that the safety of women and girls remains a priority and appealed to citizens to use social media responsibly rather than contribute to the spread of rumours.