Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 11 (NationPress) Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathil was taken into custody during the early hours of Sunday in relation to a third rape accusation against him, signifying a notable intensification in the legal challenges confronting the legislator.

It is important to highlight that Mamkootathil, previously the Youth Congress state president, was expelled from the party following the initial rape claim that emerged.

The arrest was executed by the State Crime Branch around 12:30 a.m. in Palakkad, subsequent to the receipt of a new complaint transmitted via email.

As per official reports, the recent complaint was directed to the Crime Branch after being received by the Chief Minister’s Office. Based on the allegations within the complaint, investigators moved swiftly to detain the MLA.

Mamkootathil was then transported to the Crime Branch AR Camp in Pathanamthitta, where his arrest was officially documented. The complainant has accused him of rape and severe sexual assault occurring in Thiruvalla.

In her extensive statement, she asserted that the abuse was vicious and inflicted significant physical and mental distress. Furthermore, she claimed that Mamkootathil coerced her into an abortion against her wishes.

Besides the sexual assault accusations, the complaint also alleges financial exploitation by the MLA.

The complainant has stated that Mamkootathil pressured her to facilitate the purchase of a flat in Palakkad, subjecting her to ongoing economic coercion. Investigators note that these claims introduce a new layer to the case, which will be scrutinized as part of the ongoing investigation.

This latest complaint brings the total number of criminal cases against Mamkootathil to three.

Previously, the Kerala High Court granted him protection from arrest in the first case, while a trial court allowed him anticipatory bail until January 21 in the second case. However, the revelation of this third complaint has changed the legal landscape, resulting in his detention by the Crime Branch.

Following initial questioning at the AR Camp, the MLA is anticipated to be presented before the Thiruvalla Magistrate Court later on Sunday.

Officials from the Crime Branch have indicated that they may seek further custodial interrogation to validate the claims and investigate electronic evidence and financial dealings linked to the complaint.

This case has ignited considerable political and public interest throughout the state, with calls for a comprehensive and impartial investigation. Authorities have assured that the inquiry will adhere strictly to legal protocols and that all claims will be evaluated based on substantiated evidence.