Kerala spa sexual assault: Police deny lapses in handling case; hired attack suspected

Pathanamthitta (Kerala): Police have launched a detailed investigation into the Thiruvalla spa assault reported on February 1, as authorities probe whether the attack was a ‘hired’ act, District Police Chief R Anand said on Saturday.

The incident involved a six-member gang led by history-sheeter Subin Alexander, who allegedly sexually assaulted a spa employee at knifepoint while demanding money. Police have arrested Alexander and his associate Berlin Das, while four others involved remain at large.

Victim and owner suspect rival firms

The victim and spa owner told reporters they suspected rival firms may have hired Alexander and his gang to carry out the attack.

“We will probe that aspect, as the statement of the spa owner has already been recorded. A detailed investigation is underway,” Anand said.

Preliminary probe points to robbery motive

Anand said the preliminary investigation indicates Alexander demanded money and committed the crime after his demand was refused.

He denied any lapses on the part of the police in handling the case.

“We received information from the Special Branch, which was promptly passed on to the Thiruvalla police station. The investigation was launched even before the victim lodged a formal complaint,” he said.

Police action and ongoing investigation

Anand added that action had already been taken against police personnel with links to anti-social elements in the district before the incident.

Efforts to trace the remaining accused are being led by the Thiruvalla Deputy Superintendent of Police, and steps will be taken to invoke the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) against Alexander.

“A proposal in this regard will be submitted to the District Collector soon,” he said, noting that Alexander had previously faced preventive detention under KAAPA.

Anand confirmed the investigation would be completed within the stipulated timeframe, with a charge sheet filed within the statutory period. Measures to curb anti-social activities in the district have already been initiated and will be strengthened further.