Mumbai minor boy molested in Agripada; accused Adil Ishaq Latif absconding
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A 13-year-old boy was allegedly molested by a 40-year-old man in Mumbai's Agripada locality, police officials confirmed on Wednesday, 20 May. The accused, identified as Adil Ishaq Latif, a resident of the same area, has been absconding since the case was registered, and a manhunt is currently underway.
What Allegedly Happened
According to officials, Adil Ishaq Latif allegedly showed the minor victim pornographic material and physically molested him on multiple occasions at the Clock Tower residential society in Agripada. Whenever the boy attempted to resist, the accused reportedly threatened him with 'dire consequences', according to the police statement.
Officials noted that the accused was known to the victim's family and allegedly exploited situations when no other family members were present in the house to carry out the abuse.
Victim Confides, Family Files Complaint
Gathering courage, the victim eventually disclosed the ordeal to his family. The family subsequently approached the Agripada Police Station and filed a formal complaint. Police have registered a case under Section 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Manhunt Underway
Agripada Police have launched a thorough investigation and are conducting searches at multiple locations to apprehend the absconding accused. Officials stated the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness. Further details are awaited as investigations continue.
Legal and Child Safety Context
Cases of child sexual abuse by acquaintances remain a persistent concern in urban India. The POCSO Act, enacted in 2012, mandates stringent punishment for offences against minors and requires time-bound investigation and trial. Notably, a significant proportion of reported POCSO cases involve accused persons known to the victim's family, underscoring the need for community-level awareness and child safety education.