Kerala Teenager Assault Case: 44 Arrested by Court

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Kerala Teenager Assault Case: 44 Arrested by Court

Synopsis

In a shocking case from Pathanamthitta, Kerala, a Special Investigation Team has arrested 44 individuals linked to the sexual assault of a teenage girl. The investigation is ongoing, with more arrests expected as authorities work to bring all accused to justice.

Key Takeaways

  • 44 arrests made in sexual assault case
  • Victim's testimony recorded
  • Ongoing investigation with two suspects abroad
  • Shocking details revealed by the victim
  • Case evokes memories of other high-profile incidents

Pathanamthitta (Kerala), Jan 14 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the repeated sexual assault of a teenage girl in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district has apprehended 44 individuals so far, according to its leader Ajitha Begum on Tuesday.

"There are two suspects who are currently overseas and an additional 13 more who need to be captured. The investigation is progressing rapidly, and all will be detained soon," stated the SIT chief.

On Tuesday, the victim's testimony was documented before a magistrate in the vicinity.

The SIT has initiated the process for issuing a red corner notice to ensure the return of the two suspects who are abroad.

To date, 31 cases have been filed across five police stations.

The victim, who has reportedly been assaulted by 59 individuals, has revealed shocking information that has significantly advanced the investigation.

The extensive list of suspects was identified by the SIT through an analysis of the victim's diary and her father's mobile phone, which she had been using.

The detained individuals include three minors and four students who are preparing for their Class 12 final examinations next month. Most of those arrested are between the ages of 17 and 28.

According to the victim's statement, she was exploited in various locations, including isolated rubber plantations, vehicles, and other areas within the district.

The assaults reportedly commenced when she was 13 years old and were carried out by acquaintances, coaches, senior sportsmen, and others, who exploited her position as a sportswoman. She was taken to different places in vehicles and subjected to abuse.

The case emerged during a counseling session organized by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) after her teachers noted behavioral changes in her. During the session, she revealed the extent of her abuse. The CWC subsequently referred the matter to the Pathanamthitta district police chief. FIRs have been lodged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This case has garnered significant attention, reminiscent of other notorious sexual assault cases in Kerala, including the Suryanelli, Vithura, and Kozhikode incidents.