A Sub-inspector (SI) in an urban district has been arrested following allegations that he sexually harassed and physically assaulted several minor boys while claiming to conduct a murder-related inquiry, authorities confirmed Wednesday. The arrest comes after distressed parents filed formal complaints with senior police officials, triggering an immediate internal investigation.
The accused officer, identified as a 15-year service veteran of the local police department, allegedly subjected at least four boys, aged between 10 and 15, to physical violence and inappropriate conduct over a period of three weeks. Police sources indicated that the minor victims were coerced into isolation during interrogation sessions held at an unofficial location without parental presence or legal representation.
Abuse concealed under guise of investigation
According to the First Information Report (FIR) registered at the city's main police station, the officer exploited his official position to intimidate the boys and their families. Parents revealed that their children exhibited severe trauma symptoms, including fear of authority figures and reluctance to discuss their experiences, before finally disclosing details to family members.
"The accused created a fabricated connection between the children and an unrelated murder case to justify his interrogation methods," stated a police spokesperson Thursday. "This was an attempt to legitimize entirely unauthorised and criminal conduct." The alleged investigation has been deemed unfounded, with no credible evidence linking any of the minors to the case in question.
Senior officials condemn conduct
The state police commissioner expressed "grave concern" over the incident and announced a comprehensive audit of interrogation procedures across all district stations. "We are committed to ensuring that such aberrations are identified and punished swiftly," the commissioner stated in an official statement. "Child protection remains our paramount responsibility."Senior child welfare officials have initiated separate investigations under relevant child protection legislation. The minors have been referred to counselling services and child protection authorities for comprehensive support and recovery assistance.
Legal proceedings underway
The accused officer has been booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal intimidation, wrongful confinement, and sexual harassment of minors. Legal experts note that abuse of police authority during investigations constitutes aggravated charges, potentially resulting in substantial imprisonment.
The case has triggered renewed debate about custodial interrogation protocols and the urgent need for mandatory CCTV surveillance in all police interrogation rooms. Child rights advocates have called for mandatory training programmes for law enforcement personnel on child protection and trauma-informed interviewing techniques.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities indicating that additional charges may be filed as the inquiry progresses. The police department has suspended the officer pending completion of all inquiries and administrative proceedings.