Madrasa Teacher From Lakshadweep Arrested For Sexually Assaulting Nine-Year-Old Girl On Ship To Kochi

The Hindu•Published: Oct 13, 2026 10:25 AM IST

A madrasa teacher travelling from Lakshadweep to Kochi was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl on board a ship. The accused, identified as Sayid Mohammed Naufal, took advantage of the victim while her mother was resting due to illness.

<Accused Identification>: The suspect was identified as Sayid Mohammed Naufal, a resident of Lakshadweep working as a madrasa teacher.
<Voyage Incident>: The assault occurred while the victim and her mother were travelling by ship to Kochi, with the accused luring the girl under the guise of showing her scenic views.
<Arrest And Detention>: After the victim reported the incident to her mother, ship security detained the accused and handed him over to the Fort Kochi Coastal Police upon arrival.
<Legal Action Taken>: Police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the accused was subsequently remanded to judicial custody.

The Context & Background

The incident came to light after the young victim immediately informed her mother, prompting swift intervention by the vessel's security personnel. Authorities registered formal charges under stringent child protection laws as the case transitions into the judicial system.

Why it matters:This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety and protection of minors during public transit. The swift reporting by the victim and immediate action by ship security underscore the critical importance of vigilance and robust enforcement of child protection laws like the POCSO Act.

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