Bengaluru: In a shocking incident reported from Bengaluru South district, Magadi police have arrested a YouTuber for allegedly kidnapping a minor girl and inappropriately touching her in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The case has sparked concern over the safety of minors and the misuse of social media influence, prompting police to intensify their investigation.

The accused has been identified as Ravi Jamuna, a native of Tumakuru, who runs a YouTube channel named RJ Digital News. Police said the arrest was made following a complaint filed by the victim’s family, who managed to rescue the girl and hand over the accused to the authorities.

Incident occurred in early hours of January 1

According to the police, the incident took place around 2 am on January 1, within the limits of the Magadi Police Station in Bengaluru South district. The 17-year-old girl was returning home after celebrating New Year’s with relatives when the accused allegedly intercepted her.

Investigators said Jamuna was travelling in a car along with two of his friends. The trio had reportedly been partying earlier in the night. When they spotted the girl walking alone, Jamuna allegedly stopped the car and forcibly pulled her inside the vehicle.

“The girl was abducted against her will and taken in the car. During this time, the accused allegedly touched her inappropriately,” a senior police officer said.

Minor alerts family using phone

Police said that shortly after the girl was abducted, one of Jamuna’s friends got down from the car for reasons that are still under investigation. The minor managed to use that friend’s mobile phone to alert her family about the incident and her location.

Acting swiftly, family members and local residents traced the vehicle and reached the spot where the car had stopped. They managed to rescue the girl and apprehend Jamuna before handing him over to the Magadi police.

The girl was later taken for medical examination, and her statement was recorded in the presence of a counsellor, in accordance with legal procedures involving minors.

Accused runs YouTube channel

Police confirmed that Ravi Jamuna runs a YouTube channel titled RJ Digital News, which he used to project himself as a digital media personality. Investigators are examining whether the accused had previously misused his public profile or contacts to influence or intimidate others.

Officials said the arrest sends a strong message that social media presence or online popularity will not shield anyone from the law. “Irrespective of their background or profession, strict action will be taken against those who commit crimes, especially offences against minors,” the officer added.

Case registered under POCSO Act

The Magadi police have registered a case against Jamuna under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The POCSO Act provides stringent punishment for sexual offences against children, including imprisonment and fines.

Police have also detained the two friends who were present in the car at the time of the incident. Their role is being probed to determine whether they actively participated in the crime or failed to prevent it.

“We are investigating whether the other two accused were aware of Jamuna’s intentions and whether they aided or abetted the crime,” the police said.

Community concern over safety

The incident has raised serious concerns among residents of the Magadi area, particularly regarding the safety of young girls during late-night hours, even on festive occasions. Local community members have urged police to increase night patrols and surveillance, especially during celebrations and holidays.

Child rights activists have also called for swift prosecution in the case. They stressed the importance of awareness among parents and minors about personal safety and the need for prompt reporting of such incidents.

Police assure strict action

Senior police officials said the case is being treated with utmost seriousness. The accused has been remanded to judicial custody, and further investigation is underway, including examination of CCTV footage, call records and the movements of the accused before and after the incident.

“The law is very clear in cases involving minors. We will ensure that a watertight case is filed so that justice is delivered without delay,” a senior officer said.

Conclusion

The arrest of a YouTuber for allegedly kidnapping and molesting a minor girl has once again highlighted the vulnerability of children and the need for constant vigilance by both authorities and society. As the investigation progresses, police have assured that all those responsible will be brought to justice and that no leniency will be shown in cases involving crimes against minors.