Pune News: ‘Missing’ Social Media Reel Star Found
Pune News: ‘Missing’ Social Media Reel Star Found
Influencer with 1.3 million followers located by police in a friend’s house
Pune,
June 18, 2024
In a dramatic turn of events, a social media influencer known as ‘Mau’ was found in Warje after being reported missing for several days. The 26-year-old, who has over 1.3 million followers on Instagram, had left her home on June 15, leaving behind a suicide note. Five police teams were assigned to the investigation, leading to her eventual discovery and safe return to her family.
The influencer, who first gained fame on TikTok before transitioning to Instagram following the app’s ban in India, disappeared from her home around 7 pm on June 15. Her mother, a 40-year-old woman, filed a missing person complaint at the Vishrambaug police station when she did not return by Sunday. The disappearance sparked a comprehensive search operation by the authorities.
The police investigation revealed that the influencer had been dealing with significant mental stress due to morphed photos and videos being circulated through a fake Instagram account. This harassment prompted her to file a complaint with the Vishrambaug police prior to her disappearance.
Following the missing person’s report, the police formed five teams from the Crime Branch and Vishrambaug Police. They began by reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity of her home and tracing her mobile phone’s location. This intensive effort led them to Warje, where they found her staying at a friend’s house.
Upon locating her, the police brought her to the station for counselling and subsequently handed her over to her mother. The operation was conducted under the guidance of Circle One Deputy Commissioner and led by Sub-Inspector Santosh More.
The influencer, who also runs a clothing business and is a mother to a seven-year-old daughter, has since been reunited with her family. The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her distress and are working to ensure her safety and well-being.
