Youth held for allegedly raping transwoman in Kochi
Police in Kochi arrested a 21-year-old man for the alleged rape and extortion of a transwoman. The suspect reportedly befriended the victim on social media and threatened to circulate recorded videos of the assault.
Why it matters
The case highlights the prevalence of digital extortion and violence against marginalized gender identities.
The Palarivattom police on Sunday (October 4, 2026) arrested a 21-year-old man for allegedly raping and blackmailing a transwoman. The arrested is Muhammed Shafil of Tanur, Malappuram.
The youth, who reportedly befriended the survivor through social media, is accused of sexual assault, recording visuals, and extorting ₹1.18 lakh by threatening to circulate the videos on social media. The alleged incident occurred in July.
The police said he had been out on bail in a POCSO case. The Ernakulam Judicial First Class Magistrate Court remanded him in judicial custody for 14 days.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in