A 42-year-old man from Vichumbe village has been arrested by Panvel City Police for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl over several months, resulting in her pregnancy. The accused, was a known acquaintance of the victim’s family.
According to police officials, the accused had developed a close relationship with the victim’s mother when the two worked together. He often visited the girl’s home in Karanjade, especially during times when her mother was away. According to the police, the accused took advantage of these opportunities to sexually assault the minor.
The first assault reportedly occurred in August 2024. The accused allegedly threatened the girl with harm to her and her family if she revealed the abuse. The assaults continued over time, and the girl recently began to show symptoms of pregnancy. She was taken to MGM Hospital for a check-up by her mother, where doctors confirmed her pregnancy.
“Upon being questioned, the girl revealed the identity of her abuser, leading hospital authorities to alert us. Following a formal complaint, we recorded the minor’s statement and arrested the accused. He has been booked under sections of rape and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act,” a police officer said from Panvel City police station said. The police are continuing their further investigation into the case.
