Ganderbal, Oct 12: In a major move to stop growing incidents of harassment, Ganderbal Police have arrested 20 members of a local group known as the “Self-Made Gang (16/96)”. The group was involved in harassing and blackmailing tourists and couples visiting Abdullah Park, Dumping Park, and nearby areas along Sindh river.
Police said the group used to visit these parks, secretly take photos and videos of people without permission, and later use them to threaten or blackmail the victims for money or personal gain.
During the investigation, it was found that the gang had WhatsApp and other social media groups to plan and share such illegal activities.
After receiving several complaints, police teams quickly identified and detained all 20 persons involved. Their parents and guardians were called to the Police Station Ganderbal for counseling so that such acts are not repeated in the future.
Some of the habitual offenders have been booked under the law and sent to Dignibal Jail.
To make sure such incidents do not happen again, Ganderbal Police has issued special helpline numbers for the public — Women’s Helpline: 9541786742, PCR Ganderbal: 9906668731, 0194-2416564 — to report any case of harassment or suspicious activity.
Police said they are fully committed to keeping Ganderbal safe and tourist-friendly. They have appealed to people to immediately report any such incident for quick action.
