Pathanamthitta ,11 Feb (H.S.): Police have arrested another suspect in connection with the alleged sexual assault at a spa, taking the total number of arrests in the case to four. The latest accused, identified as Prashobh, popularly known as Vokkan and a native of Chumatra in Thiruvalla, was taken into custody by a special police team in the early hours of today from Ranni.
With this arrest, investigators say the case is steadily progressing, though two more suspects are still on the run. Police sources indicated that these absconding individuals are believed to have fled the state, prompting an expanded search operation beyond Kerala’s borders.
Earlier, the police had arrested the main accused Subin, along with Berlin Das and Varun Kumar. Varun Kumar, a native of Niranam, had been evading arrest for several days before being tracked down and apprehended by a special police squad in Aluva. Officials described his arrest as a key breakthrough in the investigation.
The police are now probing whether a larger conspiracy may have been involved in the incident. Investigators are examining the sequence of events, communication records, and the possible role of others who may have facilitated or enabled the crime.
A special investigation team (SIT) has scheduled an evidence-gathering procedure with the prime accused today. Authorities stated that the process will be conducted discreetly, keeping in mind the privacy and safety of the spa staff and others connected to the case.
Meanwhile, police teams have been deployed in multiple locations to trace the remaining suspects. Checkpoints and surveillance have been strengthened, and coordination with other state police units has been initiated to prevent the accused from escaping further.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with demands for swift justice and strict action against those responsible. Police have assured that all accused will be brought to justice and that the investigation will be thorough and impartial. Further arrests are expected in the coming days as the probe continues.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman