Kerala Assault Victim's Statement Re-recorded with New Allegations
In a significant development in the Kayamkulam sexual assault case, the victim's statement was re-recorded on Tuesday by the investigation team. The team, led by Kayamkulam DSP T Binukumar, took her statement at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, where she is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained in an accident.
Fresh Details Emerge in the Investigation
The new statement includes crucial details that were not previously documented. The victim alleged that the accused businessman, Sanil Sabad, threatened her while she was at the hospital. Furthermore, she claimed that a friend of the accused offered her a substantial sum of money—reportedly Rs 25 lakh—to drop the case. These allegations have prompted the police to plan additional charges against the accused.
Comprehensive Evidence Collection Underway
The investigation team is leaving no stone unturned in gathering evidence. They have already recorded statements from more than 12 individuals who were present during the incident, including hospital staff and those who accompanied the victim. The team is now focused on collecting CCTV footage from both the hospital and the accident site to corroborate the victim's account and support the filing of further charges.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred on the night of April 3 when the victim, a native of Kollam and an IT employee in Thiruvananthapuram, was returning from Malayattoor with her friend and family. Their autorickshaw met with an accident at Kayamkulam KPAC Junction. The alleged assault took place when Sanil Sabad was assisting her into a vehicle to transport her to the hospital. Subsequently, he reportedly threatened her to remain silent about the incident and to get discharged and return to Kollam.
Ongoing Medical and Legal Procedures
The victim is scheduled to undergo a medical examination on Wednesday, which will provide further evidence for the case. Meanwhile, the district police chief has submitted a preliminary report to the Director General of Police (DGP), and the human rights commission has ordered an inquiry into the matter. The assignment of Kayamkulam DSP to lead the investigation underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating this case.
As the investigation progresses, the police are meticulously building a case based on witness testimonies, CCTV evidence, and the victim's detailed statements to ensure justice is served.
