KOLLAM: An accused found guilty for raping and murdering a seven-year-old, native of Eroor near Anchal, has been awarded three life imprisonments and 26 years of rigorous imprisonment. He should experience the punishment separately. A fine of Rs 3,20,000 was also slapped on him.

The accused identified as Rajesh (25) of Vadakkecherukara is a native of the minor. The verdict was pronounced by Kollam additional sessions court (POCSO Court). While delivering the verdict, the court informed that he has been exempted from capital punishment considering his age.

Charges of murder, rape, unnatural sex, kidnap, disrespect to dead body under Indian Penal Code and charges of aggravated sexual assault and penetrative sexual assault under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) act were slapped on him. The incident happened on September 27 in 217. On the day of the crime, Rajesh met his grandmother who was on her way to drop the child at school, offered to drop her at school, and took her to Kulathupuzha in an auto.