Authorities in Cologne, Germany, have launched an investigation into an incident involving alleged sexual harassment carried out by a robot. The event took place overnight between Saturday and Sunday, when a robot, controlled remotely by two young men, reportedly touched the buttocks of a 16-year-old girl and made thrusting movements toward her.

Cologne police were alerted to the incident and responded promptly. The robot’s suspected operator, a 16-year-old male, and an accomplice aged 19, are both under investigation. According to police spokesman Christoph Bermel, the two males have not been formally charged at this stage.

Officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the event, including reports that the incident was livestreamed by the suspects. Police continue to gather evidence in order to determine appropriate legal measures, with attention focusing on potential violations of sexual harassment laws.

The case highlights emerging challenges in legal and ethical frameworks as interactions involving remote-controlled robotics become more common in public spaces. Authorities aim to address the incident thoroughly while balancing the technical complexities involved in attributing responsibility for actions carried out via automated devices.