Facebook founder's Indian-origin 'stalker' 'apologizes'

New York, Feb 9 (ANI): Pradeep Manukonda, an Indian-origin man accused of stalking Mark Zuckerberg, has apologized to the Facebook founder.

Zuckerberg obtained a restraining order against 31-year-old Pradeep Manukonda, claiming he has been harassing and threatening him through the social networking site and in person.

A judge ordered Manukonda to stay at least 300 yards (274 meters) away from Zuckerberg, his sister Randi and his girlfriend Priscilla Chan, pending a hearing later in February.

However, Manukonda has apologized, telling TMZ, "I'm a peaceful guy ... I'm sorry he thought I was trying to harm him."

Manukonda said he "thought Mark would be able to give me advice" on an unspecified major personal problem, reports the New York Post.

"I understand he's a busy man," he said. "I'll respect his privacy." (ANI)