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Crime
Another suspect detained in Kovalam spa minor exploitation case
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 12 Nov 2026, 09:29 AM
👁 16
Police in Kerala have taken into custody an additional person linked to the minor exploitation investigation at a Kovalam spa.
Police in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram district announced the arrest of another individual suspected of involvement in a minor exploitation ring operating out of a spa in the coastal town of Kovalam. The suspect was apprehended on Tuesday following a series of raids conducted by the state crime branch and child welfare officials.
The investigation, which began after complaints of sexual abuse of minors at the spa, has already led to the detention of several persons, including the spa's manager. Authorities say the latest arrest expands the list of accused and underscores the breadth of the alleged network.
A senior police officer declined to name the newly arrested person, stating that details will be disclosed after formal questioning. The officer added that the case is being pursued under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the accused will face rigorous interrogation.
Child welfare officials are monitoring the situation closely, and the spa has been sealed pending further forensic examination. The police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
The investigation remains ongoing, with more arrests possible as the probe continues to uncover the extent of the exploitation.
The investigation, which began after complaints of sexual abuse of minors at the spa, has already led to the detention of several persons, including the spa's manager. Authorities say the latest arrest expands the list of accused and underscores the breadth of the alleged network.
A senior police officer declined to name the newly arrested person, stating that details will be disclosed after formal questioning. The officer added that the case is being pursued under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the accused will face rigorous interrogation.
Child welfare officials are monitoring the situation closely, and the spa has been sealed pending further forensic examination. The police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
The investigation remains ongoing, with more arrests possible as the probe continues to uncover the extent of the exploitation.