Panaji: The alleged sex scandal in Curchorem has escalated, with the case now handed over to the Goa crime branch for a detailed investigation. The development comes days after the arrest of 20-year-old Soham Sushant Naik, amid mounting public pressure for swift action.
Goa sex scandal: 3 FIRs filed
So far, three FIRs have been filed and statements of two survivors have been recorded. Investigators said that both the accused and the survivors were minors at the time of the alleged incidents, which are believed to have taken place nearly three years ago during their college years.
South Goa SP Santosh Desai said that one case was initially registered and two more FIRs were filed based on subsequent statements. The first FIR was registered on behalf of the state.
Naik, a resident of Madhegal in Cacora and son of a municipal councillor, was arrested following protests by locals. Crowds had gathered outside the police station on Sunday demanding immediate action.
Police confirmed that Naik is the prime suspect and is currently being interrogated, while others linked to the case are also under questioning.
Case moved to crime branch
Deputy Inspector General of Police Varsha Sharma said additional FIRs were based on a survivor’s testimony. She said that video clips recovered so far do not show the presence of survivors, adding that the accused’s mobile phone will be sent for forensic examination.
Police maintained that the investigation is being conducted thoroughly and dismissed allegations of political interference, stating that FIRs are being registered strictly on the basis of complaints received.
Naik has been booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita, the Information Technology Act, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Goa Children’s Act. A local court has remanded him to four-day police custody on Monday as the investigation continues.