Kollam Bus Cleaner Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault on Minor Boy
In a disturbing incident from Kollam, Kerala, the Kadakkal police have taken swift action by arresting a 50-year-old bus cleaner for allegedly sexually assaulting a nine-year-old boy during a bus journey. The accused, identified as Raji, a local resident of the area, now faces serious charges under multiple sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.
Details of the Alleged Assault
According to police reports, the traumatic event unfolded on Saturday evening. The young victim was returning to Kadakkal on a tourist bus after attending a marriage function in Kollam. Raji, who was employed as a cleaner on the same bus, is accused of luring the boy to the rear section of the vehicle. It is alleged that he sexually assaulted the child while the bus was in motion, taking advantage of the isolated setting.
How the Crime Came to Light
The horrific crime remained hidden until the deeply traumatized child mustered the courage to confide in his parents upon reaching home. Understandably shaken, the family wasted no time and immediately approached the police to file a formal complaint against the accused. Their prompt action set the wheels of justice in motion.
Swift Police Response and Arrest
Acting with urgency on the complaint, a dedicated police team from Kadakkal launched an investigation. They successfully located and apprehended the accused from the local area. Following his arrest, Raji was taken for a mandatory medical examination as per standard legal procedure. He was subsequently produced before a local court, which remanded him in judicial custody, ensuring he remains behind bars as the investigation progresses.
Jurisdictional Clarification and Ongoing Probe
In a related development, police officials have provided clarification regarding the jurisdiction of the case. Since the alleged assault took place within the jurisdictional limits of the Eravipuram police station, officers from that station will be incorporated into the investigative team to ensure a comprehensive probe.
A senior police official involved in the case stated, "The probe is ongoing and we are ensuring all procedural aspects are thoroughly covered. More details of the incident will come out as the investigation progresses." This statement underscores the commitment of the authorities to leave no stone unturned in seeking justice for the young victim.
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the vulnerability of children in public spaces and the critical importance of vigilance. The swift arrest under the stringent Pocso Act reflects the legal system's resolve to deal harshly with such heinous crimes against minors.
