An alleged daylight kidnapping attempt involving a minor girl in Santkatte area of Belthangady, Dakshina Kannada district, has been found to be false following a police investigation.
The incident was initially reported on February 9, when the teenage girl, a first PU student at a government pre-university college in Belthangady taluk, claimed that three masked men travelling in a multi-utility vehicle attempted to abduct her while she was riding a two-wheeler to college. She had told police that the men tried to force her into their vehicle and allegedly assaulted her with a knife when she resisted. She also stated that the accused fled after a passer-by intervened.
Early reports suggested that the alleged assailants had tied pieces of cloth
over the vehicle’s number plate, reportedly to prevent identification. Police had begun efforts to trace the suspects based on the girl’s statement.
However, subsequent investigation by Belthangady police revealed inconsistencies in her account. After reviewing CCTV footage from the location where the incident was said to have occurred, police found no evidence of any multi-utility vehicle matching the description provided by the girl.
A medical examination further confirmed that the injuries on her hands were self-inflicted. During questioning, the minor admitted to giving a false statement to the police.
Authorities stated that since the girl is a minor, counselling will be arranged through a Child Development Planning Officer. Police also said they would initiate appropriate legal action against individuals who allowed the minor to operate a two-wheeler.
The police have confirmed that no kidnapping attempt took place and the case is being handled as per legal and child welfare procedures.
