New Delhi, Feb. 2 -- Mumbai Police on Monday issued a clarification after reports claimed the force had sounded a high alert over an alleged spike in human trafficking involving minor children. The police said they "categorically deny" the assertions circulating in the media and on social platforms.

In a statement posted on X, the police said: "Certain social media handles are misrepresenting data and indulging in rumour-mongering regarding cases of missing and kidnapped children. We categorically deny these claims."

The police said steps are being taken against individuals "deliberately spreading false information and creating public panic."

"Action, including the registration of FIRs against those deliberately spreading false informa...