Kerala Police Arrest Man for Blackmailing IUML Leader's Family via Social Media
In a significant development, Kozhikode police on Monday arrested a man accused of posting derogatory messages on social media against IUML state president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal and attempting to extort a massive sum of money from his relative. The accused, identified as Muhammad Roshan, a native of Ponyakurshi in Perinthalmanna, was produced before a judicial first class magistrate court on the same day.
Complaint and Allegations
The case was registered based on a complaint filed by Moeen Ali Shihab Thangal, a member of the prominent Panakkad Thangal family. According to the FIR, the incident unfolded on January 31 when Roshan allegedly called Moeen Ali and a friend to a shopping mall in Perinthalmanna. There, he showed them fake and unclear images and videos on his mobile phone, claiming they depicted Sadikali Thangal.
Roshan then attempted to blackmail them by demanding a staggering Rs 15 crore, threatening to publish the content on social media if the money was not paid. He further issued death threats to prevent them from reporting the matter to the police, escalating the intimidation.
Social Media Misuse and Criminal History
Later, on March 21, the accused created a fake Facebook account under the name ‘Shan Shanu’ and posted the derogatory messages. Although the post was later removed and the account deleted, the damage had been done, prompting police action. Investigations revealed that Roshan has a history of criminal involvement, with Kaapa (Kerala Anti-Social Activities Prevention Act) invoked against him in the past.
Legal Charges and Police Action
Police have registered a case against the accused under multiple sections, including:
- Sections 192, 308(4), and 351(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act
- Section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act
This arrest highlights the growing concern over cybercrime and extortion tactics targeting public figures and their families in Kerala. Authorities are continuing their probe to uncover any further details or accomplices in this high-profile case.
