GUWAHATI: A 21-year-old man from Shillong, who was wanted in connection with a POCSO and rape case, surrendered before police at Laitumkhrah Police Station on July 16 and was later arrested, East Khasi Hills Police confirmed.
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The accused, identified as Jonathan L Pachau, surrendered before the officer-in-charge of Laitumkhrah Police Station. Police said he will be produced before the court.
The arrest follows an extensive search operation launched after Meghalaya Police issued an all-India lookout notice and formed a special investigation team to trace him. Police had also coordinated with Mizoram Police after receiving information that the accused might have fled to the neighbouring state.
Investigators said the probe is ongoing, with statements being recorded from additional complainants who have recently approached the police. The statement of the first complainant, along with relevant digital evidence, had already been documented earlier.
Police are also examining information that suggests there could be more victims linked to the case. Individuals who have contacted the authorities are being asked to formally record their statements and file FIRs wherever required.
Officials have urged the public not to treat allegations circulating on social media as verified facts, adding that all such claims are being examined as part of the investigation. A chargesheet will be filed after the investigation is completed.
The case gained public attention after photographs of the accused and unverified allegations were widely shared on social media, claiming that multiple young women had been sexually assaulted by him over a period of time. However, police had earlier clarified that only one formal FIR had been registered at Laitumkhrah Police Station on July 7 and appealed to any other alleged victims to come forward and lodge complaints.
Before his surrender, the accused had been declared absconding, prompting Meghalaya Police to intensify efforts to locate him with support from law enforcement agencies outside the state.