Man Apprehended Following Covert Filming of Women Shared on Social Media

An individual has been taken into custody after women were filmed during nights out without their consent, and the resulting videos were disseminated on social media platforms. A BBC North West investigation uncovered that these recordings had garnered millions of views and attracted misogynistic comments, which subsequently initiated a police inquiry. The footage, frequently titled “Manchester nightlife” or “Liverpool nightlife,” was uploaded daily to TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. A 27-year-old man was arrested earlier in Bradford on suspicion of stalking and harassment and is currently undergoing questioning in police custody. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) reported that numerous women affected by these videos had contacted authorities following a public appeal. One woman, aged 23, who was filmed, informed the BBC that she was recorded while walking on Deansgate in Manchester. She stated that she only became aware of being filmed after receiving a link to one of the videos, adding, “I have no words really other than it just made me feel a bit sick.” The police force issued a statement: “We’ve arrested a 27-year-old man from Bradford on suspicion of stalking and harassment, in connection with several reports of women being followed, filmed, and harassed in Manchester City Centre.” This apprehension is believed to be the nation’s first in connection with multiple viral social media videos that appear to show women being filmed during nights out, with some instances occurring while they were in vulnerable states. GMP further stated that during the investigation, officers discovered additional content “locked under paywalled accounts which included footage of suspected non-consensual nudity and upskirting.” Chief Inspector Stephen Wiggins commented, “Filming in public is legal, however where this filming crosses the line into offences such as upskirting, stalking or harassment, it’s important that we don’t allow that behaviour.” He further emphasized, “Everyone has the right to feel safe as they enjoy a night out, and these videos have made people, particularly women, not feel like that, which we can’t tolerate.” For further listening, the best of BBC Radio Manchester is available on Sounds, and BBC Manchester can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.