New Delhi: In a shocking development, social media influencer Elvish Yadav has been arrested and sent to 14-day judicial custody for his alleged involvement in supplying snake venom at rave parties. The arrest, which occurred almost two days after he was declared the winner of Bigg Boss OTT 2, has unveiled a startling motive behind the act. According to police sources, while financial gain was a factor, Yadav’s primary intent was to bolster his fan base and project an image of ‘swag’ or ‘bhaukaal’—a term colloquially used to describe a sense of influence or power.
Contrary to earlier reports from a police source claiming Yadav had confessed, The Indian Express has been informed that during interrogation, Yadav denied any wrongdoing. Despite his denial, authorities assert they possess substantial evidence against him. The police believe Yadav’s actions were a deliberate attempt to cultivate a rebellious image among his followers, portraying himself as someone who defies law enforcement with impunity.
Further investigations have revealed that snake venom was used in over six parties, all allegedly connected to Yadav. Law enforcement is currently working to identify attendees of these parties, with plans to take legal action against them for utilizing the venom.
Yadav’s arrest took place in Noida, several months after his name first emerged in the investigation. The case traces back to last year when a group of five individuals was apprehended during a raid at a rave party. Authorities seized nine snakes, including five cobras, and approximately 20 ml of snake venom. The individuals were charged under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and for criminal conspiracy under section 120B of the Indian Penal Code.
At the time of their arrest, the group claimed they had supplied the snakes and venom to Yadav for his events. Yadav, however, refuted these allegations. He was interrogated on November 7, 2023, regarding the case and attributed the supply of snakes to the rave party to singer Fazilpuria, distancing himself from the accusations.
The case continues to unfold as authorities delve deeper into the illegal wildlife trade, with the social media influencer’s involvement bringing to light the grave implications of such activities.
