Social Media Influencers Arrested for Spreading Drone Theft Rumours

Two influencers were arrested for spreading false claims on social media about thieves using drones to scout homes in Uttar Pradesh, causing public panic. Police confirmed no evidence supports these claims. The accused have been charged under IT laws and sent to jail. Authorities are monitoring drone activity closely.

Two social media influencers, Laiba and Meenakshi, have been detained for allegedly generating panic by spreading rumours about thieves using drones to scout houses in western Uttar Pradesh. Despite their claims, police found no evidence of criminal drone activities.

Laiba, aged 22 and pursuing an MSc, and Meenakshi, also 22, posted videos to their followers, causing public alarm. Their assertions were dismissed as baseless by law enforcement officials, leading to their arrest and charges under relevant legal provisions.

The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of drone usage, directed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, following multiple arrests linked to drone-related misinformation. The authorities warned of severe penalties for unauthorized drone activity.

(With inputs from agencies.)