Bengaluru Police Cracks Down on Dangerous Internet Pranks, Arrests Instagram Influencer
In a firm stance against reckless online behavior, Bengaluru police on Saturday apprehended a social media prankster for filming a video with a toy gun aboard the city's Namma Metro. The incident, which sparked public outrage, highlights growing concerns over pranks that compromise safety in crowded spaces.
Viral Video Leads to Arrest of Puducherry Native
The accused, identified as Arjun from Puducherry, reportedly boarded a train from Dipanjali Nagar station on February 6 and used a toy gun to prank unsuspecting commuters. The video quickly went viral on his Instagram account, the_villian_arc, drawing widespread criticism and police intervention.
In a video apology posted by Bengaluru city police, Arjun expressed regret, stating, "I was carrying a toy gun in my pocket, and the public got angry with me." He assured commuters and authorities that he would not repeat such actions, acknowledging the distress caused.
History of Provocative Stunts in Public Places
This was not Arjun's first controversial prank in Bengaluru, where he has been residing for the past two years. His Instagram profile features numerous stunts shot in crowded locations like shops and autorickshaws, often involving provoking strangers for content. Police emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable, with an official warning, "A prank with a toy gun is not a joke. It can create panic and threaten public safety. Public places are not for risky content. Think before you act."
The arrest serves as a cautionary tale for content creators, underscoring the legal and ethical boundaries of online pranks. Authorities are urging the public to report similar incidents to prevent safety hazards in urban transit systems and other shared spaces.
