Gang rape at Ayurvedic spa in Thiruvalla: police form SIT

The case took a new turn on Saturday with the spa owner claiming that the incident was the result of a ‘quotation’ issued by a competitor. The police have recorded the statements of both the survivor and the spa owner and an inquiry is also under way to ascertain whether the spa was involved in any illegal activities.

“Steps have been taken to extend all legal support to the survivor through the District Legal Services Authority and to provide her with counselling. The police are also moving ahead with plans to invoke the Kerala Anti Social Activities Prevention Act against Subin Alexander, the prime accused in the case, to place him under preventive custody,” said R. Anand, District Police Chief, Pathanamthitta.

Denied allegations

The officer also denied allegations that police personnel were involved in the monthly extortion of money from spas in the region. “We have not unearthed any such allegations in connection with this case. However, action has been taken earlier against those who were accused of engaging in such activities,” he said.

According to him, the incident first came to light following the intervention of a Special Branch officer, even as the survivor and the spa owner initially hesitated to lodge a complaint. “The officer directly briefed me about the incident, and based on that information, a case was registered,” he explained.

When asked about the role of the survivor’s co worker, who was allegedly friendly with the accused while the crime was taking place, the District Police Chief said the matter would be investigated and appropriate action would be taken if required.

Video of assault

In her statement, the survivor said the accused had forced her to ask the spa owner to pay ₹3 lakh and had already taken ₹50,000, threatening to release a video of the assault if the demand was not met.

Meanwhile, efforts are under way to trace and arrest the remaining four accused in the case. The police are also probing whether more persons were involved in the crime.