KOCHI: The Organised Crime Wing of Crime Branch on Friday arrested Jose Maveli, chairman of the Sisubavan, exactly two months after the government took over the Janaseva Sisubhavan, Aluva, for allegedly concealing the sexual abuse of children which happened at the institution. However, Maveli told reporters the arrest and charges against him are the result of a personal grudge harboured by vested interests.
The Crime Branch also arrested the 19-year-old Tamil Nadu native, who committed the sexual abuse when he was a minor, and Robin Mathai, a computer operator with the Sisubhavan, for covering up the crime. As per the information sourced from the police, the sexual abuse took place nearly one-and-a-half years ago.
“The Tamil Nadu native, who was a caretaker at the establishment, sexually abused at least five children when he was a minor. Though the victims complained to Jose Maveli and Robin, the duo kept it a secret and didn’t inform the police. It is an offence punishable under Section 19 and 21 of the POCSO Act,” said a Crime Branch source.
According to the police, the accused, except the teenager, will be presented before a magistrate while the perpetrator will be produced before the Juvenile Justice Board. The name of the perpetrator is being withheld as per the provisions of the POCSO Act. Y R Rustom, DySP, Crime Branch OCW is the investigating officer in the case.
“The abuse came to the light after the three inmates complained about the abuse which took place at the Sisubavan to the childline authorities at Malappuram. Still, there are more children who are suspected to be abused at the establishment. The final picture will be out only after recording their statement,” said the police.