Ernakulam, Kerala: The investigation into the alleged morphing and circulation of obscene images at Bharata Mata College, Thrikkakara, has expanded beyond the campus, with police now examining links to students of other colleges and people outside the institution.

What initially appeared to be a case involving a small group of college students has widened as investigators traced Telegram groups allegedly used to collect, alter and circulate images. Those involved are believed to have operated under the impression that the secret groups would make it difficult for police to identify them.

According to the investigating team, images of teachers and minor girls were collected from social media platforms and other Telegram groups. The images were allegedly morphed and circulated in an obscene manner. Investigators also found that some images were circulated without alteration.

Police are currently monitoring four Telegram groups linked to the case. The investigating team has obtained details about the administrators and members of these groups as part of efforts to establish the wider network.

One of the groups under investigation is ‘Mallu Premium’, which was started by Alappuzha native Saneesh, the second accused in the case. Police have approached the court seeking his custody for further investigation.

Premium group collected money from members

The investigation has also uncovered a separate premium group where members allegedly collected money while sharing images and videos.

The group has 12 members, according to the investigating team. Police found that some of the accounts linked to the group were operated using foreign phone numbers.

Kochi City Police have again approached Telegram seeking details of these accounts. According to the police, the platform has not yet provided information relating to the accounts using foreign numbers.

More people under police surveillance

More than 10 people who were active in the groups are currently under police surveillance. Investigators have also identified several people who allegedly had links with those already accused in the case.

Police expect questioning of more people to provide further information about the network and its activities. The investigation is continuing as officers examine the roles of those involved in collecting, modifying and circulating the images.