Pune Police Debunk Child-Kidnapping Rumours, Urge Citizens Not to Spread Misinformation
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 17th February 2026: Pune City Police has issued a public advisory debunking social media rumours claiming that a child-kidnapping gang is operating in Pune, stating that the messages are false and appear intended to create panic among residents.
In the advisory, DCP (Crime Branch) Nikhil Pingle clarified that no such gang has been detected and warned that circulating unverified information can spread fear, especially among parents and guardians. Officials urged citizens not to believe or forward such claims and to rely only on confirmed updates from official sources.
Authorities also appealed to the public to remain vigilant but avoid panic, adding that any suspicious activity or emergency should be reported immediately to the nearest police station or through the national emergency helpline 112. Residents can also contact police via official social media channels, DCP Pingle said.
The department emphasized that public cooperation is essential to maintain law and order and prevent misinformation from disrupting peace in the city.
