Tamil Nadu, 15 February (H.S.)

In a shocking incident, two schoolgirls and a schoolboy were allegedly raped by five individuals, including four minor boys, in Tamil Nadu. The police have arrested the accused and are investigating the case.

On Friday evening, three minor accused were detained and the 18-year-old youth was arrested. Meanwhile, the fifth accused is still absconding. The three minor accused have been sent to the observation home for juveniles in Coimbatore city.

Meanwhile, the 18-year-old youth was remanded in judicial custody and is currently, lodged at the Coimbatore Central Prison. A manhunt operation has been launched to nab the fifth accused

According to the police, the incident occurred when the three victims, aged between 13 and 15, were walking home from school. The accused, who were known to the victims, allegedly abducted and raped them.

The police have arrested four minor boys, aged between 14 and 16, and one 20-year-old man in connection with the incident. The accused have been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

The police are providing counseling and support to the victims and their families. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern over the safety and well-being of children in the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary