Police in Kheda district arrested eight men on Saturday and launched a search for the ninth accused in connection with the alleged gangrape and repeated sexual assault of a teenage girl over a period of more than three years. The victim, who was a minor at the time the crimes began, was allegedly lured into a relationship by one of the accused, after which the prime accused took intimate photographs of her without consent. These images were then used by all nine men to blackmail the girl, threatening to circulate them on public forums if she did not comply with their demands.

As per the complaint filed by the victim, the accused repeatedly summoned her to various locations in the district, where they sexually exploited her over an extended period. The continuous coercion and abuse reportedly lasted for three years, leaving the teenager traumatised and under severe psychological pressure due to the ongoing threats of exposure.

Also Read: HC Slams Electoral Fraud: Panchayat Leader Disqualified for Deliberate Deception

A special POCSO court subsequently remanded the eight arrested men to three days of police custody to facilitate further investigation into the case. Authorities are actively pursuing the ninth accused, who remains at large, while examining digital evidence and other materials linked to the alleged blackmail and assaults.

The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those pertaining to gangrape, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, given the victim's minor status during the period of exploitation. Police have emphasised that such crimes against minors are treated with utmost seriousness and that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly to ensure justice for the survivor.

Kheda police officials stated that the arrests mark a significant step in addressing the complaint, and support mechanisms for the victim, including counselling and legal aid, have been initiated as part of standard protocol in POCSO cases. The probe continues to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and any additional evidence that may strengthen the case against the accused.

Also Read: PM Modi Says Congress And Allies “Unmasked” After Women’s Reservation Bill Fails