Kerala influencer arrested for alleged sexual assault of at least 15 women via Instagram

A social media influencer was arrested here on Friday for allegedly sexually assaulting multiple women after befriending them through Instagram, with police indicating that at least 15 women may have been targeted using a similar modus operandi.

The accused, identified as Yadu Girish, 38, a native of Thannyam , was taken into custody following a complaint by a woman from Ernakulam who alleged that he assaulted her after establishing contact through social media and promising to marry her . During the investigation, at least three more women approached the police with similar allegations, stating that Girish gained their trust online before sexually exploiting them.

According to investigators, Girish was highly active on Instagram and operated multiple fake accounts to approach women and conceal his identity. A preliminary forensic examination of his mobile phones and online communication revealed extensive chat histories and contact lists, leading police to believe that a larger number of women may have been exploited using the same method. Officials said efforts are underway to trace and identify additional victims.

Police also suspect that the accused secretly recorded intimate images and videos of some victims without their consent and allegedly used them for blackmail and coercion , prompting the inclusion of stricter provisions under the Information Technology Act. Authorities further indicated that some complaints are being verified to determine whether any victims were minors , in which case provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act would also be invoked.

Multiple cases have been registered against Girish under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act. The investigation is being conducted by a special team of the Thrissur District Crime Branch under the supervision of an Assistant Commissioner of Police.

Police have urged other potential victims to come forward, assuring confidentiality, protection, and legal support , as the probe continues to uncover the full extent of the alleged abuse.