Dighori Horror: Did Rape Accused Live Stream Torture On Dark Web?

Nagpur: Investigators probing the alleged rape, torture and attempted murder of a 16-year-old student in a Dighori rented flat, are examining whether the accused briefly live-streamed the assault on dark web, a development that has widened the scope of investigations into his online activities.Police sources said the allegation is being verified through forensic examination of two mobile phones and a laptop seized from the Thane-based accused.According to the investigation, the accused, a BBA student, allegedly operated on social media under the shadow name ‘Akash Mehra’ for nearly a year and befriended several minor girls online. Police believe he came in contact with the Nagpur teen through one of her friends and remained in touch with the three girls through the messaging platform — Discord.Investigators suspect he may have established contact with other girls across Maharashtra and are analysing the seized electronic devices to determine whether any other victims were targeted or sexually exploited.Police alleged that on Aug 2, the accused called the survivor to meet him and took her to a rented room in the Dighori area, days later. Investigators claim he tied her hands and legs, sexually assaulted her and inflicted 20 injuries with a knife. During the assault, he is suspected to have transmitted visuals of the incident to another person through an online platform, said top sources. Police are probing whether the dark web was used during the alleged transmission.The investigation has also focused on the survivor’s two friends, who had earlier interacted with the accused on Discord. According to police, while conversations were initially cordial, the accused allegedly became abusive over time, prompting the two girls to cut off contact. Cops say the survivor, however, remained under his influence.Statements of the two girls are expected to be recorded as investigators attempt to reconstruct the accused’s online network and establish whether any other offences were committed. Police are also considering whether to seek further custody of the accused to continue the investigation.