Mangaluru Court Delivers Justice in Pocso Case with 4.5-Year Sentence
In a significant ruling, the additional district and sessions FTSC-II (Pocso) judge Maanu KS in Mangaluru has sentenced a man to four years and six months of rigorous imprisonment for crimes under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act. The convicted individual, Mohammad Safwan alias Safwan, aged 32 and a resident of Shanthigudde in Bajpe, was found guilty of sexually assaulting a minor after engaging in blackmail.
Details of the Assault and Blackmail Incident
The case dates back to March 30, 2025, when a 15-year-old girl was accompanied by an acquaintance to Kadri Park. While they were seated together, Safwan clandestinely photographed the minor. Later, as the girl began her journey home, he followed her on a scooter. On the route, he confronted her, threatening to disclose the photo to her father unless she complied with his demands. When the girl attempted to walk away, he forcibly grabbed her hand and took her to a nearby apartment building, where he committed the sexual assault.
The assault was interrupted when the victim heard her brother's voice, prompting Safwan to flee the scene. The girl promptly informed her family about the traumatic incident, leading to the registration of a formal case. Inspector Balakrishna HN from the Women's police station conducted a thorough investigation and filed a chargesheet in court, paving the way for the legal proceedings.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing Details
During the trial, special public prosecutor Sahana Devi Boloor vigorously argued the prosecution's case, emphasizing the severity of the offenses. After evaluating the evidence, Judge Maanu KS delivered the verdict, sentencing Safwan under multiple legal provisions.
- Under Section 8 of the Pocso Act and Section 75(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), he received three years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 15,000.
- Additionally, under Section 78 of the BNS, he was sentenced to one year and six months of simple imprisonment.
The court also mandated financial compensation for the victim. It directed that Rs 20,000 from the imposed fine, along with an additional Rs 30,000, be provided as compensation through the District Legal Services Authority. This ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to delivering justice and supporting survivors in such sensitive cases.
