Punjab Police's Cybercrime Division Cracks Down on Child Sexual Abuse Material Network

Punjab Police's Cybercrime Division has arrested one person and identified 54 suspects involved in child sexual abuse material (CSAM) distribution. Electronic devices were seized, and further investigations are underway. An FIR was filed under Section 67B of the IT Act. The operation is ongoing, with more arrests expected.

In an extensive operation, the Punjab Police's Cybercrime Division has apprehended one individual and identified 54 suspects involved in the viewing, transmission, and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) via various online platforms. The arrested individual is a resident of Ramsra, Fazilka. Electronic devices have been seized following standard procedures, with proper hash values recorded. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav confirmed the arrest in a statement on Thursday, noting that an FIR has been registered under Section 67B of the IT Act at the Cyber Police Station.

A total of 39 devices were confiscated from different suspects and sent for forensic analysis. The operation aligns with a recent Supreme Court ruling that viewing, possessing, and not reporting CSAM content is punishable under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act. Further investigations are ongoing to dismantle the racket comprehensively.

CSAM includes any content depicting or exploiting minors in a sexual manner, such as photos, videos, or other media. This material is illegal to produce, distribute, or possess, causing long-lasting harm to victims. The arrested individual has been identified as Vijaypal, and an FIR has been registered under Section 67B of the Information Technology Act at the Cyber Police Station. DGP Yadav stated that the operation was launched following Cyber Tiplines from the Ministry of Home Affairs. ADGP Cybercrime, V Neeraja, highlighted that the meticulously coordinated operation, led by SP Cybercrime Jashandeep Gill, is still ongoing, with more arrests anticipated.

(With inputs from agencies.)