Man arrested for spreading misleading ‘Zombie Drug’ video in Bengaluru

City police on Friday arrested a 29-year-old private firm employee for allegedly circulating a misleading video on social media that falsely claimed a man was under the influence of a so-called “zombie drug,” triggering public concern.

The accused, identified as Hemanth, a resident of Vidyaranyapura, had uploaded a video showing a man standing in a disoriented state. The footage quickly went viral, with users speculating that the individual had consumed a synthetic narcotic substance, raising alarm about its possible presence in the city.

Acting swiftly, police traced the origin of the video and issued a notice to Hemanth to join the inquiry. Upon learning that authorities were searching for him, he posted an apology on social media before being taken into custody.

A medical examination of the individual featured in the video confirmed that he had not consumed any narcotic or psychotropic substances, police said, dismissing the claims as baseless. Officials further revealed that the man had recently arrived in the city in search of livelihood and had been staying there for the past three months.

A case has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections pertaining to spreading false information and statements likely to incite public disorder.

Police have urged citizens to refrain from sharing unverified content on social media, warning that strict action will be taken against those found spreading rumours. Further investigation into the case is ongoing.