Cyber Crime Police had arrested Dimapur District Congress Committee working president, Dietho Rhakho on December 23 in connection with the alleged fake letter that showed Nagaland chief minister, T.R. Zeliang writing to Governor, P.B. Acharya and conveying the resignation of the State Cabinet on December 20.
The letter went viral on social media, especially on Whatsapp and Facebook, on December 20 creating much confusion in the State.
Following filing of an FIR by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) that very day, the Cyber PS (PHQ) registered a case and investigation was launched to book those responsible for spreading fake news concerning the highest office of the State with malicious intent.
The penal section in this case connection pertains to forgery, defamation, cheating, impersonation, public mischief and personating by using computer resources. Rhakho was arrested for creating and posting the fake letter.
In a statement, Temjensenla Jamir, SP Crime & PRO, PHQ, claimed that the accused in his statement to the cyber police admitted of creating and circulating the fake letter. During the course of investigation, Cyber Crime Police had found and seized evidence leading to the originator of the fake letter, the police officer added.
On December 22, two persons were also summoned to the Cyber Police Station, PHQ wherein they were subjected to intense interrogation since they were found to be amongst the firsts who posted the fake letter.
However, on ascertaining that they only re-posted the fake letter that went viral and were not the source, they were released on PR Bond, but only after ascertaining the author of the letter.
Contending that use of social media, especially Whatsapp and Facebook, had become widespread in the State, Jamir cautioned users to use the medium responsibly.
Acknowledging the fact that it was a powerful tool for dissemination of information, views and opinions, the official stated that it should be used sagaciously.
“Of late much news items and documents have been spread over the social media with malicious intent. It is, therefore, urged to all social media users to use the medium responsibly and not to forward or re-post such news items/documents without verifying its authenticity since such act will attract penal action as per the law. Be responsible. Be safe. Use social media responsibly,” the statement urged.