A 43-year-old karate teacher, Siddique Ali, has been arrested in connection with the alleged rape and murder of a 17-year-old student in Malappuram, Kerala. The girl’s body was found in the Chaliyar River on February 19, 2024, after she was reported missing earlier that day.
According to the victim’s family, the girl, who excelled academically and held a black belt in karate, was routinely harassed and sexually abused by Ali, her karate teacher. The family further alleges that the victim would never commit suicide and was motivated to fight for justice despite experiencing stress. They also mentioned she stopped attending karate classes two weeks prior due to the alleged harassment.
Vazhakkad police arrested Ali on February 22 under the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act. The investigation began after the girl’s body was discovered in the river near her home. Her body was reportedly found undressed, raising suspicions among relatives and residents who had been searching for her since she went missing. Witnesses reported seeing two strangers near the location where the body was found on the day of the incident.
The family’s complaint alleges that when confronted by neighbors, the two strangers, believed to be Ali and an accomplice, drove away without revealing their faces. This further fueled suspicions of foul play.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are gathering evidence to support the allegations against Ali. The cause of death is also under investigation, although the family believes it was not suicide.
This tragic incident has sparked outrage and concern in the community, with many demanding justice for the young victim and a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
