Kasargod, 05 August (H.S.): A 25-year-old woman has been arrested by Melparamba police in Kasaragod district for allegedly sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl, nearly one-and-a-half months after a case was registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The accused, identified as Sneha Merlin, a native of Pulliparamba near Taliparamba in Kannur district, was taken into custody following an investigation into the minor's complaint. She was subsequently produced before a court, which remanded her to judicial custody.

According to police, the alleged sexual assault occurred when Merlin stayed at the girl's family home within the Melparamba police station limits. Investigators said Merlin was acquainted with the girl's mother, whom she had met while the latter was lodged in Kannur Women's Prison in connection with a narcotics case.

Police registered the POCSO case on the basis of a statement given by the 16-year-old.

The alleged abuse, however, did not come to light immediately. Police said the girl disclosed the incident during a counselling session, following which the matter was reported to the authorities. Investigators said the minor had allegedly remained silent about the incident for several months due to fear.

The case has also taken a further turn involving allegations against the girl's father. He had earlier been arrested under the POCSO Act after the minor alleged in her statement that he had sexually assaulted her.

The girl's mother has now alleged that the accusation against the father was made by the minor under Merlin's influence. Police are examining this claim as part of the continuing investigation.

Investigators are collecting and examining scientific evidence, witness statements and other material connected with the allegations. Police said further action would be taken on the basis of evidence gathered during the investigation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman