COLOGNE (Web Desk) - Police in the German city of Cologne have taken a humanoid robot into custody after it allegedly touched and behaved inappropriately towards a 16-year-old girl outside a fast-food outlet.
According to media reports, the incident occurred shortly before midnight on Saturday. The girl reportedly screamed and moved away after the robot approached her from behind and touched her.
Police later found the robot hidden in the boot of a vehicle and seized it. Two mobile phones were also taken into custody as part of the investigation.
Authorities have begun investigating the robot’s 16-year-old owner and his 19-year-old companion. The two were reportedly livestreaming the incident on social media and commenting on what was happening.
Investigators are examining whether the humanoid robot was being operated remotely and how it was controlled during the incident.
The approximately four-foot-tall robot was described as red and gold in colour. Earlier videos circulating online reportedly showed the same device wearing a fake moustache, a gold chain and a white vest while making inappropriate gestures towards women in public places.
The circumstances of the latest incident remain under investigation. The allegations against the individuals involved have not been established through a court ruling.