Assam Police Conducts Statewide Operation Against Child Pornography Network
In a significant crackdown on digital exploitation, the Assam Police have arrested seven individuals from various districts across the state for their alleged involvement in creating and circulating child pornography content. All arrests were executed within the last 24 hours, marking a swift response to cybercrime threats targeting minors.
Coordinated Effort Leads to Multiple Arrests
The operation was spearheaded by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Assam, in collaboration with district police units, targeting the creation and distribution of child sexual exploitative and abuse material (CSEAM). Based on actionable intelligence received through the Cyber Tipline, authorities conducted raids across five districts, leading to the apprehension of the suspects.
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
- Dulu Boruah, Raju Dutta, and Priyam Handique from Golaghat district
- Hemanta Kalita from Kamrup Metropolitan district
- Minhaz Khan from Kamrup district
- Aychan Ali Ahmed from Barpeta district
- Deluwar Husaain from Bajali district
According to an official press statement from Assam Police, First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered under relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, ensuring legal proceedings are initiated against the accused.
Forensic Support and Evidence Collection
During the operation, mobile phones and other digital devices used in the commission of these offences were seized and sent for forensic examination. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, provided live forensic support, which played a crucial role in the swift identification and apprehension of the suspects.
This collaboration highlights the growing emphasis on leveraging technology and inter-agency cooperation to combat cybercrimes, particularly those involving child exploitation.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Steps
The Assam Police have stated that further investigation is underway to unearth the broader nexus involved in the creation and circulation of CSEAM and other unlawful content. Authorities are focused on dismantling any networks that facilitate such activities, aiming to prevent future incidents and protect vulnerable children from digital harm.
This operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies in Assam to address serious cyber offences and uphold child safety in the digital age. As the probe continues, more details are expected to emerge regarding the extent of this network and potential connections to larger criminal enterprises.