Kochi City Police have initiated a comprehensive investigation into an alleged gang-rape incident at a spa located in Kakkanad, following a detailed statement provided by a 24-year-old woman from Malappuram. The survivor lodged a formal complaint on July 18, recounting an ordeal she described as "35 minutes of horror," during which she alleged she was held at knifepoint and subjected to sexual assault.

The incident reportedly unfolded after the survivor was contacted via Instagram with a job offer, which led her to a flat in Kakkanad. According to her statement to the police, she was subsequently taken to a spa in the area where the alleged assault took place. She informed authorities that she was threatened with a knife, filmed during the act, and later blackmailed with demands for Rs 1 lakh. The police have registered a case and are actively pursuing leads.

  • Victim's Profile: A 24-year-old woman hailing from Malappuram district.
  • Recruitment Method: Initial contact made through Instagram, offering a job opportunity.
  • Location of Incident: A spa situated in Kakkanad, Kochi, following an initial meeting at a nearby flat.
  • Alleged Threats: The survivor stated a knife was used to intimidate her during the assault.
  • Extortion Attempt: Accused individuals reportedly demanded Rs 1 lakh and filmed the incident.

Two individuals, Shajahan (30) from Perumbavoor and Rajeesh (33) from Irumbupalam, have been arrested in connection with the case. According to Thrikkakara Assistant Commissioner P Rajkumar, who is overseeing the investigation, Shajahan is believed to be the owner of the spa where the incident occurred and is suspected of operating a "sex racket." Police acted swiftly after the complaint was filed, commencing an immediate investigation.

The accused have been booked under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology Act, including:

  • Section 376D: Gang-rape
  • Section 366: Kidnapping, abducting or inducing woman to compel her marriage, etc.
  • Section 342: Punishment for wrongful confinement
  • Section 506: Punishment for criminal intimidation
  • Section 385: Putting person in fear of injury in order to commit extortion
  • Section 34: Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention
  • Section 67A: Punishment for publishing or transmitting in electronic form material containing sexually explicit act, etc. (of the Information Technology Act).

The Kochi City Police are continuing their investigation to apprehend other individuals believed to be involved in the crime. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses and additional arrests are made. The case highlights concerns regarding online recruitment scams and the safety of women in urban environments.