“Social Media Sleuthing is a Crime – Submit Proof to Police: Mangaluru Top Cop Warns”

Mangaluru – City Police Commissioner Sudhir Reddy has issued a stern warning against individuals conducting informal investigations on social media platforms, cautioning that such actions could be treated as a punishable offense.

Addressing the growing trend of online speculation in ongoing cases, Commissioner Reddy emphasized, “It’s not your job to declare who is guilty or innocent. Publicly labeling someone without legal authority amounts to interference with the law.”

He urged citizens not to take justice into their own hands online. “If you possess credible evidence, don’t resort to posting it on Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp. Instead, approach the nearest police station, and we will verify and act as per the law,” he stated.

The commissioner clarified that vigilante-style digital probes, even if well-intended, disrupt the official legal process and may even derail ongoing investigations. “Spreading rumors or conducting a trial through social media can mislead the public and harm innocent individuals. Such behavior will be treated seriously,” he added.

In recent weeks, several posts and videos alleging guilt or innocence in local cases have surfaced online, prompting the police to intervene and track down those behind these speculative narratives.

Reddy concluded by affirming the department’s commitment to transparency and urged the public to trust law enforcement rather than resort to crowd-sourced justice.

“If you’re truly concerned and have facts, come forward the right way. Otherwise, misusing social media under the guise of justice is itself a crime.”

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