Kerala Viral Bus Video: Accused Shimjitha Musthafa Arrested
A social media video accusing a man led to his suicide, triggering a major police investigation. The influencer who posted the video has now been arrested and sent to judicial custody
An important update has emerged in the suicide case of 42-year-old Deepak from Kerala. Deepak died by suicide after a social media video posted by influencer Shimjitha Musthafa accused him of sexually assaulting her on a moving bus. The video went viral with nearly 20 lakh views and reportedly pushed Deepak into severe depression. Shimjitha had uploaded the video online without first filing a formal police complaint.
Following the incident, a police complaint was lodged and authorities began searching for Shimjitha. The Kerala State Human Rights Commission directed the police to submit an investigation report within one week. A men’s association also approached the High Court seeking a CBI probe into Deepak’s death.
Police said Shimjitha went into hiding after non-bailable sections were invoked. Her phone was switched off, and a lookout notice was issued to stop her from leaving the country, as she had lived abroad earlier. Investigators suspected she crossed into Mangaluru.
Police examined CCTV footage from the Al Ameen private bus where the incident allegedly occurred. The footage showed Deepak boarding the bus at around 12:45 pm, appearing normal, while Shimjitha boarded about a minute earlier. No disturbance was seen. Statements from the driver, conductor, and staff confirmed that no complaint or unusual incident was reported during the journey.
On 21 January, Shimjitha was arrested and sent to judicial custody for 14 days. Her digital devices will undergo forensic examination. Police opposed bail, citing possible influence on witnesses. The bail hearing is scheduled for 27 January. She is currently lodged at Manjeri Jail.
