Rayagada: The Rayagada district police have sought to classify the recent mob violence incident in K. Singhpur block as a “Red Flag” case, underscoring the gravity of the attack that was triggered by suspicions of child kidnapping.
Addressing the media on Saturday, Rayagada Superintendent of Police Raj Prasad said the Crime Branch has joined the investigation and is assisting the district police in unraveling the case.
According to the SP, 20 persons have been arrested so far in connection with the incident, while several others have been detained and are being questioned. He said many accused persons are absconding, and multiple police teams have been formed to trace and apprehend them.
Prasad said strict legal action would be initiated under the Information Technology (IT) Act against individuals who recorded videos of the incident and circulated them on social media. The cyber investigation is being conducted under the direct supervision of DIG (South Eastern Range), he added.
“The police cyber team is actively working to identify those responsible for making the videos viral. Strict action will be taken against anyone found involved,” the SP said, adding that he is personally monitoring the progress of the investigation.
Three criminal cases have been registered so far in connection with the violence. Police said two volunteers who were allegedly attacked by the mob are recovering.
A special legal assistance team has also been constituted to examine the FIRs, available evidence, and legal aspects of the case, the SP informed.
Prasad further stated that the incident involves issues related to the dignity and privacy of a woman. Recording and circulating her video without consent constitutes a violation under the IT Act, he said, describing the matter as highly sensitive.
The SP confirmed that the principal accused in the case has already been arrested. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing efforts to identify and apprehend all those involved in the mob violence.
