Priest, nuns accused of covering up Kannur rape case surrender

Kannur (Kerala) [India], Mar. 17 (ANI): Days after the arrest of Father Robin Vadakkumcherry in connection with the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl, the priest and nuns accused of covering up the matter surrendered before the police on Friday. Earlier on March 5, the Bishop of Mananthavady had apologised to the victim while asserting that the incident has brought shame upon the people of the diocese. Earlier, the Bishop had removed the parish priest from the office of the vicar as per the Canon law. The victim was allegedly raped and impregnated by the priest, who is now in prison with a trial underway. The police registered case against eight people including two nuns for helping in covering up the issue. They were charged with non-bailable offenses under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO). Earlier on February 25, an anonymous letter was received by the child line mentioning the incident, which was brought to the notice of the Kelakam Police. A woman police officer met the victim on February 28 and recorded her statement. In the initial stages, the victim had given a statement that her own father had committed the crime. But on further questioning the parents of the victim, the truth was revealed and the accused was identified as the priest, who is also the manager of the school where the minor girl studied. As per the statement, the incident took place in May 2016. (ANI)