How Did a Cyber Stalker Get Arrested for Defaming a Woman on Social Media?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Cyber harassment is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
- Victims often suffer significant mental trauma.
- Laws must evolve to provide better protection against online threats.
- Awareness campaigns are essential for educating people about digital safety.
- Support systems for victims must be strengthened.
New Delhi, July 16 (NationPress) The cyber cell of Delhi Police successfully apprehended a stalker from Maharashtra on Wednesday for harassing and defaming a woman through the dissemination of her photographs accompanied by offensive remarks on various social media platforms. He also inscribed her phone numbers in public spaces, including the walls of restrooms.
The suspect, identified as Yasin Sheikh, was captured in Pune following a complaint lodged by a 38-year-old woman at the North District police station.
The victim reported that the accused was subjecting her to harassment and emotional distress by posting her images on social media with derogatory comments.
She alleged that he extracted her mobile number from her Instagram account and wrote it on public surfaces, including restroom walls and railway platforms in Pune.
Furthermore, she accused the perpetrator of creating multiple Instagram accounts under her name, uploading videos that included her mobile number, and attaching derogatory labels such as “Call girl service”.
This led to significant mental distress for her, as she began receiving calls from numerous unknown numbers with inappropriate requests.
In response to her complaints, a police team analyzed the call records of the suspect's mobile number and tracked his IP addresses to locate him.
After conducting several raids, the police apprehended Sheikh, who had been tormenting the complainant for the past 2 to 3 years.
Upon interrogation, Sheikh disclosed that he resided in Pune and worked as an auto-rickshaw driver, stating that he was eccentric and mentally unstable.
During questioning, he claimed to have a girlfriend who was employed with the complainant’s husband. He mentioned that he had advised his girlfriend against working with him.
Sheikh further claimed that he attempted to persuade the complainant's husband (his girlfriend's boss) to distance himself from her. When his advice was ignored, he resorted to revenge by attempting to defame the complainant.
However, when the police questioned the woman in question, she denied any romantic involvement with Sheikh, clarifying that he was merely a friend. She stated that after recognizing his obsession, she decided to unfriend him on all social media platforms.