India, Feb. 6 -- Delhi Police on Friday said claims on social media about a surge in missing girls in the national capital were being amplified through paid promotions, and warned of strict action against those spreading panic for monetary gain.

In a statement, the police said, "After following a few leads, we discovered that the hype around the surge in missing girls in Delhi is being pushed through paid promotion. Creating panic for monetary gains won't be tolerated, and we'll take strict action against such individuals."

Data shared by the Delhi Police shows that the number of people reported missing in the national capital in January this year was proportionately lower than in previous years, countering claims of a recent surge.

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