In a landmark ruling, a special POCSO court in Mangaluru has handed down a sentence of 20 years in prison to three individuals convicted for the assault of a 16-year-old girl. The accused men, Mohammed Shakhir (26), Abdul Samad (32), and Abhijit (27), were also fined a total of ₹1.65 lakh.

The crime took place on December 7, 2021, when the victim was deceived with false promises of gifts and taken across various locations in Kasargod and Mangaluru taluks. Despite her objections, she was forcefully administered intoxicants and confined. The investigation, led by Ullal police inspector Sandeep G S, included testimonies from 15 witnesses and the presentation of 50 pieces of evidence.

The case reached its conclusion on January 31, with Judge Manu K S delivering the final verdict. Along with the sentence, the court directed the accused to pay ₹1.65 lakh to the victim. Additionally, the District Legal Services Authority has been instructed to provide ₹2.35 lakh in additional compensation under the Victim Compensation Scheme.

This ruling serves as a firm reminder of the legal system’s commitment to justice for vulnerable individuals, ensuring that such heinous crimes do not go unpunished.