Kerala athlete allegedly raped by over 60 men, including coaches and classmates, over 2 years

The Kerala Police have arrested six individuals in connection with a serious case of sexual abuse involving an 18-year-old athlete from Pathanamthitta district. The survivor, who recently turned 18, reported that she had been subjected to repeated sexual assault since she was 16 years old. The abuse allegedly involved over 60 men, including her coaches, fellow athletes, and local residents.

The case came to light after the victim's teachers at an educational institution noticed significant behavioral changes, which led them to refer her to a school counselor. During a counseling session, the victim disclosed the ongoing abuse, and the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) was alerted. Following the committee’s involvement, the police registered four FIRs. Five men were arrested in connection with two of these FIRs, while one other individual was already in custody for an unrelated case but was implicated in the investigation.

The abuse is said to have taken place at various locations in Pathanamthitta, including sports camps where the victim participated. According to police sources, the survivor used her father’s mobile phone to save the contacts of around 40 men who had assaulted her. In the initial stages of the investigation, more than 60 men have been identified as potential perpetrators. Out of these, 40 individuals have been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, with further arrests expected.

A special investigation team, led by Pathanamthitta District Police Chief VG Vinodkumar, is handling the case due to its complexity and the high number of involved suspects. The arrested individuals have been identified as Subin, S Sandeep, VK Vineeth, K Anandu, and Srini. While the investigation progresses, police are gathering evidence and interviewing potential witnesses to uncover the full scope of the crime.

The victim has been relocated to a shelter home for her protection, and the CWC, along with the police, is providing necessary psychological and emotional support. The CWC has also prioritized the survivor’s privacy and well-being during the ongoing investigation, ensuring that she receives the appropriate counseling and care. The police have assured that the case will be handled with urgency, and further developments are expected as the investigation continues.