A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Bradford on suspicion of harassment and voyeurism after a series of viral videos capturing intoxicated women in Manchester city centre without their consent surfaced on social media. The arrest followed an investigation by the Manchester Evening News into the disturbing trend, revealing that some vloggers had been posting explicit content behind paywalls, charging subscribers for footage zooming in on women’s chests and bottoms in nightlife hotspots.
The videos, filmed on Peter Street and Deansgate, depicted women in vulnerable situations, unaware that they were being recorded. The information uncovered by the investigation was passed to Greater Manchester Police, leading to the identification of a suspect and the subsequent arrest. This marks the first arrest in the UK related to such viral social media videos, which have also been reported in cities like London, Liverpool, and Leeds, accumulating millions of views.
The suspect remains in police custody for questioning, with Greater Manchester Police stating that the arrest is linked to reports of women being followed, filmed, and harassed in Manchester City Centre. Chief Inspector Stephen Wiggins emphasised the seriousness of the issue, highlighting that everyone has the right to feel safe while enjoying a night out and underscoring the police’s commitment to taking action against anyone who jeopardises that safety.
The police have urged anyone impacted by the content of these videos to come forward to assist with ongoing investigations. Particularly as the holiday season approaches, with Christmas and New Year celebrations underway, patrols have been heightened in city centre hotspots to ensure the safety of individuals, especially women. The public is encouraged to report any predatory behaviour or incidents of harassment to the authorities for further action.
As the investigation continues, authorities are determined to address the issue and support those affected by the dissemination of non-consensual and exploitative content. It is crucial to uphold the safety and well-being of individuals in public spaces, and Manchester police are taking proactive measures to maintain a secure environment for all community members during the festive period and beyond.
In conclusion, the arrest of the suspect in connection with the viral videos highlights the authorities’ commitment to addressing harmful online behaviours that infringe upon individuals’ privacy and safety. It underscores the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and ensuring that all members of the community feel protected while engaging in social activities. Through collaborative efforts between law enforcement, the public, and other stakeholders, steps are being taken to combat such inappropriate and exploitative practices in the digital sphere.