Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Mar 29: The sensational 2022 prostitution case involving PU college girls at a flat in Nandigudde, Attavar, has concluded with the acquittal of all 17 accused due to a lack of evidence.
The case, which created a stir in Mangaluru, was uncovered following a police raid led by then-police commissioner Shashikumar and DCP Hariram Shankar. Authorities had arrested over 17 individuals, including prominent local builders and associates of influential politicians from Ullal. The main accused, Shameena from Uppala in Kasargod, along with her husband Abubakkar Siddique and associates Asma, Aisamma, Rehmath, and Ummar Kunhi, were allegedly running a high-tech prostitution racket.
According to the investigation, young women from financially weak backgrounds, particularly college students, were lured with promises of a luxurious lifestyle and large sums of money. Two Muslim girls were rescued, while 15 individuals, including three women and a 75-year-old man, were arrested. Wealthy individuals from Kerala were reportedly among the clients who were deceived into believing they would meet underage girls in private apartments.
The accused allegedly befriended college girls, took them on outings, and later persuaded them to engage in prostitution by offering lakhs of rupees. Despite police filing a charge sheet and producing 86 witnesses, the case collapsed in court as key witnesses failed to appear.
On March 28, the Mangaluru district additional POCSO court ruled in favour of the accused, citing insufficient evidence. The prime accused, Shameena, had passed away during the trial. The defense was respresentated by advocate Vikram Raj A, Mohammed Asgar, and Yasmin argued for the main accused, who had 10 cases. Arun Bangera, Mohammed Sinan, Abdul Aziz, and Rajesh argued for the remaining accused.