In a deeply disturbing case from Kerala’s Kasaragod district, a 16-year-old boy was allegedly sexually assaulted by 14 men over a period of two years after being befriended on a mobile app intended for the LGBTQ community. The assaults reportedly took place at the boy’s home and in several other locations across Kasaragod, Kannur, and Kozhikode districts.

Police Arrest 9, Including Govt Employees

Police have so far arrested nine of the 14 accused, including two government employees, one from the Railways and another from the Education Department. One of the accused is also a local political figure. The accused men are aged between 25 and 51. The police said five others are absconding, and their details have been passed on to respective district police units.

Abuse Uncovered After Mother’s Suspicion

The abuse came to light when the boy’s mother saw an unknown man fleeing from their house. Upon confronting her son, he confessed to what had been happening. She then informed Childline, which alerted the police. The boy was questioned by authorities, and his statements led to the registration of 14 separate cases under the POCSO Act.

All 14 accused have been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted, comprising a DySP and four Inspectors, to investigate the eight cases that occurred within Kasaragod district. The remaining six cases have been transferred to police teams in Kozhikode and Kannur.

Accused Paid Victim After Assault

According to the investigation, the accused gained the boy’s trust through online interactions, then lured him to various locations where they sexually assaulted him. Police also revealed that in several instances, the accused paid the minor after the assaults, further deepening the severity of the exploitation.

The case has sparked outrage in Kerala, especially due to the involvement of public officials. Authorities have promised strict action, and the investigation is ongoing. Child protection agencies and NGOs have also urged stronger digital safety measures for minors and swifter justice in POCSO-related cases.

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