Chennai Police Intensify POCSO Investigation, Bar Five Suspects from Leaving India
Investigation into POCSO Cases Against Businessman
Photo: IANS
Chennai, Oct 26: The Greater Chennai Police have taken significant steps in their investigation into POCSO cases involving R. Veeramani, the owner of Gem Granites, and his associates by prohibiting five suspects from traveling abroad.
Authorities have issued Look Out Circulars (LOCs) to ensure these individuals do not leave India, as investigators believe they possess crucial documents or information pertinent to the alleged crimes.
According to police sources, connections to the ongoing inquiry into the elderly businessman and his associates were uncovered, prompting the issuance of these circulars. This action allows immigration officials to stop the suspects at airports, seaports, and other designated entry points.
A police representative indicated that the travel restrictions were enacted based on findings that suggested the suspects' involvement in the ongoing investigations.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed eight cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act against Veeramani and others, including a separate case related to the alleged abetment of a minor girl's suicide in 2004.
So far, eight individuals have been arrested in connection with this investigation and are currently held at Puzhal Central Prison.
In a related development, Veeramani’s daughter, Archana Veeramani, was permitted to return home after a brief hospitalization. She had been detained by SIT personnel at Chennai International Airport while attempting to travel abroad.
The SIT reported that Archana was interrogated regarding her father's alleged criminal activities and financial dealings that may have been intended to evade law enforcement.
Additionally, another POCSO case has been registered against Veeramani following a complaint from a victim who accused him of sexual abuse. His associate, Shanti, along with another individual named Lazar, has also been implicated in this case.
This latest allegation is part of the eight POCSO cases currently under investigation, with authorities scrutinizing the roles of Veeramani and his associates.
The SIT plans to request custody of Veeramani, Shanti, and her husband, Mahendra Simhan, for further questioning. Investigators aim to confront them with evidence collected during the inquiry, focusing on the material already gathered as they delve into the allegations across the registered cases.
Police sources indicated that the lookout measures are designed to keep the five suspects accessible to investigators as the inquiry continues. The SIT anticipates completing the investigation soon and filing chargesheets in the designated court.