Mumbai Police clarification came after viral social media reports claimed that 12 minor children had gone missing within 36 hours across the city, triggering widespread public panic and fears of organised human trafficking. The police on Monday firmly denied the claims, stating that the information circulating online was misleading and amounted to rumour-mongering, with no such high alert issued by authorities.
The controversy erupted after multiple social media posts alleged that children, including eight girls, had disappeared from different areas of Mumbai, prompting speculation about large-scale trafficking. As concern spread rapidly among residents, the Mumbai Police stepped in to counter what it described as false and misrepresented data.
Mumbai Police Denies Viral Reports
In an official statement posted on X, the Mumbai Police categorically rejected the claims, accusing certain social media handles of distorting facts related to missing children cases.
“Certain social media handles are misrepresenting data and indulging in rumour-mongering regarding cases of missing and kidnapped children. We categorically deny these claims,” the police said.
The department also warned that legal action was being initiated against individuals and platforms responsible for spreading unverified information and creating unnecessary public fear.
FIRs Planned Against Rumour Spreaders
The Mumbai Police confirmed that steps are underway to register FIRs against those found deliberately circulating false information.
“Action, including the registration of FIRs against those deliberately spreading false information and creating public panic, is under process,” the statement added.
Officials emphasized that such misinformation can undermine public trust and disrupt law and order.
What the Viral Claims Alleged
The reports shared widely on social media claimed that 12 minor children had gone missing within a short span of 36 hours across seven police station jurisdictions in Mumbai. Some posts further alleged that the police had issued a high alert, suspecting a human trafficking racket.
According to the viral claims, searches were reportedly being conducted at crowded locations such as markets, railway stations, bus terminals, hospitals, and child care homes.
Public Panic Prompts Police Response
As the posts gained traction, residents began calling for a citywide red alert, with comment sections flooded by anxious messages questioning why the issue had not received broader media attention. The growing panic ultimately prompted the Mumbai Police to publicly clarify the situation.
The department reiterated that the claims were unfounded and urged citizens to rely only on verified information from official sources, cautioning against sharing unconfirmed reports that could lead to fear and confusion.