An Instagram influencer, Arun Kathare, residing in JP Nagar, Bengaluru, recently found himself in legal trouble after posting a controversial reel featuring assault rifles on his social media account. The video, which went viral, depicted Kathare and several others dressed as bodyguards holding AK-47-like weapons outside a hotel in Chokkanahalli, seemingly aiming to garner likes and shares on Instagram.
Following the video’s circulation, Bengaluru police took immediate action, initiating a suo moto case against Kathare. Their response was swift and decisive, underscored by a social media post that read, “That moment when ‘likes’ turn into ‘cuffs’. Bengaluru City Police doesn’t just watch; we act.” This proactive approach by law enforcement garnered positive feedback online, with users commending the police for promptly addressing such incidents.
One commentator emphasized the regulatory framework surrounding firearms, stating, “You cannot go around trotting guns (fake or not). There are strict guidelines around it.” The incident also drew attention to potential risks of impersonation and fraud associated with such actions.
This incident underscores the gravity with which authorities handle the misuse of social media platforms, particularly when content involves potentially dangerous or illegal activities. The swift intervention by Bengaluru police serves as a deterrent, signaling the consequences for individuals seeking attention through reckless behavior on social media.