Imandi Ravi custody may expose iBomma piracy network
HYDERABAD: City cybercrime police will take iBomma administrator Imandi Ravi into custody on Thursday to question him in connection with large-scale film piracy cases.
Custody in three cases, 12 days of questioning
Police secured custody for four days each in three cases, totalling 12 days of interrogation. Investigators said Ravi purchased more than 20 domains, including iBomma and Bappam TV, with the intent of making illegal money through piracy.
He allegedly pirated films and web series across multiple languages. Police said Ravi entered into agreements with online betting and gaming companies and sold personal data of users who accessed pirated content on his platforms.
Film industry complaints led to arrest
Following complaints from prominent Telugu film personalities over heavy losses caused by piracy of new releases, city cybercrime police registered cases and arrested Ravi. Officials said earlier custodial interrogation failed to yield crucial information, prompting fresh custody.
So far, police have confirmed that about 21,000 films were pirated through platforms linked to Ravi. During questioning, he attempted to claim that he acted alone and, at times, denied having any connection with iBomma, which surprised investigators.
Overseas links under suspicion
Police noted that the website operating under the name iBomma Tamil dot com continues to publish film news and reviews. Investigators believe an overseas-based iBomma team may be running the platform.
How far the accused will cooperate in revealing key information remains uncertain, police said.
Meanwhile, after Ravi’s arrest, police have taken note of morphed photos and videos being circulated on social media. Officials said efforts are under way to identify those posting content that damages the police’s reputation.
