The Crime Branch-CID of the Tamil Nadu Police has arrested a 28-year-old man from Rajasthan for allegedly creating and sharing fake videos that appeared to show Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay. The videos reportedly used Hindi audio and were designed to make people believe that the Chief Minister was offering financial assistance.
According to the police, the fake videos were shared on social media along with a WhatsApp number. People who believed the videos were genuine were encouraged to contact the number to seek financial help. The suspects allegedly used this method to cheat people in Madhya Pradesh and other states.
Police officials noticed the AI-generated videos during routine cyber patrols on social media platforms. Following the discovery, the authorities registered a case under relevant cybercrime laws and formed special teams to identify those behind the operation.
Investigators tracked the movements of the accused, identified as Shyabu Khan, across parts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The Tamil Nadu police worked with their counterparts in Rajasthan to trace him. Khan was eventually arrested near Alwar.
During the operation, police seized his mobile phones and other electronic devices. These devices are expected to help investigators understand how the fake videos were created, shared, and used in the alleged fraud.
Khan was later brought to Chennai for further legal proceedings. Investigators are also looking into a possible international connection. Police reportedly found similar fake videos being circulated through Facebook accounts based in Pakistan.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify other people who may have been involved in the operation, including those operating from outside India. Officials are examining digital evidence and social media activity to determine the full network behind the alleged scam.
The case highlights growing concerns over the misuse of artificial intelligence to create realistic-looking videos of public figures. Such manipulated videos can potentially mislead people and be used for financial fraud or spreading false information.
The Director-General of Police praised the Crime Branch-CID team for its efforts in tracking down the accused. The team was also appreciated for using advanced technical skills to investigate the digital evidence and identify the suspect.