Special team to probe harassment complaints against Mamkootathil

Thiruvananthapuram: The Crime Branch will form a special team to investigate the allegations that Rahul Mamkootathil sexually harassed women and forced one of them into an abortion. The team will include cyber experts and women officers, who will record detailed statements from the survivors.

The probe will be led by DySP C Binu Kumar of the Crime Branch Thiruvananthapuram Range, under the supervision of Crime Branch chief H Venkatesh. Based on the victims’ testimonies, a separate case will be registered. Notices will also be issued to record the statements of two other women who have accused Rahul.

Police received information that Congress leaders were trying to dissuade the victims from filing complaints, which led to the probe being fast- tracked. Survivors have expressed willingness to testify, after which Rahul himself will be questioned by the investigating team.

The Crime Branch will also attempt to recover chats from WhatsApp and Telegram. Charges against Rahul include forcing an abortion, issuing threats over phone calls, stalking women on social media, harassment, and causing mental trauma.

The police chief confirmed that six complaints received against Rahul contained serious charges. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured that survivors need not fear filing complaints and that the police will take necessary legal action.