Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, March 18: In a chilling case that has sparked outrage in the local community, the Konaje police have arrested a 33-year-old logistics professional for the alleged sexual assault of a nine-year-old boy.

The accused, identified as Ashish Poojary, was apprehended on Wednesday, March 18, following a formal complaint lodged by the victim’s family.

According to police sources, Poojary, who is the son of Manjunath and an employee at MSC Logistics in Bejai, targeted the young victim by using classic grooming tactics. The accused allegedly lured the child to a secluded spot under the pretext of offering him pocket money and snacks.

Investigation has revealed a disturbing level of premeditation, as a police official stated that not only was the child subjected to physical assault, but the accused also used his mobile phone to show the minor obscene videos, inciting him to perform lewd acts.

The authorities have moved swiftly to ensure a watertight case, invoking the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act alongside the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Specifically, the Konaje police have registered the case under Sections 4, 6, and 12 of the POCSO Act, which cover penetrative sexual assault and harassment, as well as Section 75 of the BNS.

The accused, a resident of Madyar, Kotekar post, has been remanded to judicial custody after being produced before the court. While the arrest marks a significant breakthrough, the Konaje police confirmed that further investigation is under way to determine if there are other potential victims.

To comply with the POCSO Act and judicial guidelines, the identity of the survivor has been strictly protected, as any disclosure of the minor's details remains a punishable offence.