Kannur woman accused of abusing 12-year-old girl and 14-year-old boy

Kannur (Kerala): A 23-year-old woman has been arrested in Taliparamba, Kannur, in connection with the sexual abuse case The accused, Sneha Merlin, a native of Pulimparamba, was arrested after a 12-year-old student girl reported the assault during a Childline counselling session.

The abuse came to light when a teacher found a mobile phone in the student's bag. The teacher, who became suspicious after checking the phone, informed the child's parents. On the advice of the teachers, the parents took the child to a Childline counselling session.

During the session, the child claimed she had been subjected to abuse multiple times. Following this revelation, Childline authorities reported the case to the police, leading to Sneha Merlin’s arrest. Further investigations revealed that the accused had given the child gifts, including a gold bracelet. The arrest was based on alleged abuse that took place in February.

Reports also claim Sneha Merlin was involved in the abuse of another 14-year-old boy. According to reports, she allegedly filmed the act and used the footage to intimidate the boy into silence.

In addition to the latest charges, a separate police case is pending against Sneha Merlin for allegedly assaulting former CPI leader Komath Murali with a helmet.