Kochi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken up the probe into the controversial child sexual abuse case that rocked the Minicoy Island, giving relief to local natives who had alleged that the police was protecting the accused. “We’ve taken up the probe from the local police following a direction from the Union ministry. A team of officials have been dispatched to the island on April 17. The statements of concerned persons are being recorded,” said a senior officer in charge of the investigation. The CBI sleuths have also reportedly summoned Ameer Bin Muhammed, the sub-inspector posted there at the time of the case coming up, and recorded his statements.
A case of child sexual abuse was reported from the Minicoy Island in March 2016. A video of the accused sexually molesting a nine-year old girl was reportedly leaked later and it was found that more minor children were subjected to sexual assault. The Lakshadweep police had on 14 August last year arrested 46-year-old K. Moosa from the Nedumbassery airport in connection with the case.
Local residents, however, soon resorted to protests charging that the cops are trying to protect the accused and even have role in leaking one of the victim’s identity. Mr Ameer was temporarily suspended and Lakshadweep administration was forced to slap Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) on the island for a few days to prevent any untoward incident. “We welcome the CBI probe for which we have been running from pillar to post, petitioning various authorities. The whole truth should be brought out including the death of father of one of the victims,” said Dr Muneer Manikfaan, a social activist.
