German Police Investigate Teenagers Over Alleged Robot-Assisted Sexual Assault in Cologne

German police are investigating two young men aged 16 and 19 over an alleged sexual assault involving a humanoid robot that was reportedly filmed and livestreamed on social media in the western city of Cologne.

According to police, the incident occurred late Saturday when a 16-year-old girl was walking with two friends in Cologne. A 1.2-metre-tall robot, coloured red and gold, allegedly approached the teenager and touched her buttocks before making thrusting movements.

Police said the robot's alleged owner, a 16-year-old boy, and a 19-year-old man are suspected of recording the incident, broadcasting it live on social media and making comments as it unfolded.

A police statement issued Monday said the two suspects were being investigated in connection with the alleged incident.

Video Circulates on TikTok

Footage circulating on TikTok appears to show a red-and-gold humanoid robot accompanied by two males approaching and pressing against a teenage girl. In the video, the girl can be heard screaming and seen moving away from the device.

The footage has drawn attention to concerns surrounding the use of robotic devices in public spaces, particularly where their operation may involve harassment, intimidation or violations of personal boundaries.

Police were alerted to the incident and subsequently located the robot inside the boot of a car. Investigators suspect that the device's owner had hidden it there following the alleged assault.

Authorities seized the robot and two mobile phones belonging to the suspects as part of their investigation.

Investigation Underway

The two males remain under investigation as police work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the alleged physical contact, the recording of the encounter and the livestreaming of the footage.

The case also raises questions about the potential misuse of emerging technologies and the responsibilities of individuals operating robotic devices in public areas.

While humanoid robots are increasingly being developed for entertainment, research and commercial applications, their use must remain subject to applicable laws and respect for individual safety and dignity.

Police have not announced the outcome of the investigation, and the allegations against the two suspects have not been proven in court.