KASARGOD: The search for the absconding accused in the case of sexually abusing a 16-year-old boy, whom they met via a dating app, is progressing. The case is being investigated by five circle inspectors by a team led by Kanhangad DySP Sunil Kumar. The police arrested nine accused in the nine cases registered at the Chandera Station.

Information has obtained that youth league leader Sirajuddin is seeking anticipatory bail. The investigation is being conducted in Ernakulam and Kozhikode for the accused in the cases transferred to Payyannur, Kozhikode Kasaba Police Station, and Elamakkara Police Station in Kochi. The police had earlier found that the accused had abused the boy after giving him money. An investigation is also underway into the agent, who connected the accused with the boy. More accused are suspected to be involved in the incident.

Bekal AEO V K Sainuddin, one of the accused in the case, was suspended pending investigation. He was suspended following his arrest in the case. This was informed by Education Minister V Sivankutty.

The Chandera Police have recorded a detailed statement from the boy. It is reported that the boy was abused from last of 2023 to September 2025. The accused took the boy to various parts of Kasaragod, Kannur and Kozhikode and abused him. The minor’s mother, who grew suspicious after seeing two men regularly visiting him and secretly interacting with the boy, led to the disclosure of the abuse. Child Line authorities informed the police after recording the statement from the boy.