22-year-old man held for harassing 17-year-old girl

Cuttack: The cyber crime and economic offence police station in Cuttack has arrested a 22-year-old man from Kendrapada district for allegedly harassing a 17-year-old girl online and circulating objectionable content through social media platforms.The accused reportedly befriended the girl from Cuttack for nearly two years. Police said the duo became acquainted as the man frequently visited the Cuttack house of his uncle, who was the girl’s neighbour. Their friendship developed into a romantic relationship.Police said, “The relationship later turned sour and they broke up. Enraged over the separation, the man allegedly misused intimate photographs of the girl that were in his possession and circulated them on social media platforms, causing her severe distress.”Following a complaint lodged by the girl’s mother on June 18, the cyber crime and economic offence police station launched a probe. Technical evidence was collected and analysed in coordination with telecom service providers and online platforms, leading to the identification and arrest of the accused on Tuesday.“The accused was identified through digital evidence and his involvement in circulating objectionable content and online harassment has been established.

He has been arrested. Further investigation is underway,” said DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo.A case has been registered under various provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 67B of the Information Technology Act. Police seized a smartphone and two SIM cards allegedly used in committing the offence.Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant against cyber harassment, identity theft and misuse of personal photographs on digital platforms.