In a significant crackdown on online child sexual exploitation, the Cyber Crime Department of Punjab Police has made notable progress by arresting one individual and identifying 54 suspects involved in the viewing, sharing, and distribution of Child Sexual Exploitation Material (CSAM) across various online platforms.
The arrested individual, named Vijayapal, is a resident of Ramsara in Fazilka. Following standard procedures, police seized multiple electronic devices from him, ensuring that the correct hash values were recorded for further investigation. An FIR (First Information Report) has been registered under Section 67B of the Information Technology (IT) Act at the Cyber Police Station.
During this operation, a total of 39 devices were confiscated from different suspects, all of which have been sent for forensic analysis. The police are working diligently to uncover and dismantle the entire network involved in these serious crimes. This initiative was prompted by cyber tip-offs regarding the circulation of CSAM material received from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The operation aligns with a recent Supreme Court ruling that clarified the legal consequences of viewing or possessing CSAM. Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act, it is illegal to produce, distribute, or possess any material that sexually exploits minors. Such actions can cause long-term harm to victims.
Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav emphasized that this operation is just the beginning. The police teams are committed to identifying and apprehending more individuals involved in these crimes. Assistant DGP Cyber Crime V. Neerja noted that the operation was carefully coordinated by SP Cyber Crime Jashandeep Gill, highlighting Punjab’s broader efforts to combat online child abuse.
Under current laws, including Section 67(B) of the IT Act and Section 15 of the POCSO Act, viewing, distributing, or storing CSAM is a criminal offense. Offenders can face up to five years in prison and fines reaching ₹10 lakh.
Punjab Police operates Cyber Crime Police Stations across all 28 districts and commissionerates. These stations are equipped with Cyber Investigation and Technical Support Units to effectively tackle cyber crimes. Individuals who need assistance or wish to report CSAM are encouraged to contact their local cyber crime police station or reach out to the state cyber crime department.
This operation marks a crucial step in protecting children from online exploitation and underscores the commitment of law enforcement to combat such heinous activities effectively.
