A viral video that triggered widespread concern over alleged “zombie drug” use in Bengaluru has been confirmed as a hoax, city police officials said.
Police clarify viral video claims
The video, widely circulated on social media, showed a man standing motionless on a street in Bagalur near Nitte College. Many users speculated that he was under the influence of synthetic narcotics, leading to panic among residents.
However, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh confirmed that these claims were unfounded.
Medical tests reveal real cause
Police traced the individual seen in the video, identified as a migrant labourer, and conducted a medical examination. Officials stated that tests found no evidence of synthetic drug use.
Instead, the man had consumed alcohol along with prescribed medication for arthritis and sinus issues, which likely caused his unusual condition.
Concern over spread of misinformation
Commissioner Singh expressed concern about how quickly misinformation spread. He noted that many people shared the video without verifying facts or alerting authorities, resulting in unnecessary fear.
Authorities warned that spreading false information is a punishable offence and said strict action would be taken against those deliberately circulating misleading content.
Investigation handed to CCB
The case has been transferred to the Central Crime Branch (CCB), which is working to identify the individual who first recorded and uploaded the video online.
Police have urged citizens to exercise caution while sharing content on social media and to verify information before amplifying it.
Officials urge responsible online behaviour
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara clarified that while cases involving harmful drug mixtures have been reported in other states, the Bengaluru incident is not linked to such substances.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age and the importance of responsible online behaviour.