A football coach has been arrested in Maharashtra's Palghar district after a minor football player accused him of sexual abuse and blackmail, police said. The accused, identified as 36-year-old Abhijit Mendal, was taken into custody by Manikpur police in Vasai following a complaint lodged by the 17-year-old girl and her family.
According to police, the teenager alleged that the coach exploited his position of trust after she joined his football academy in 2023. Investigators said the complaint accuses Mendal of repeatedly sexually assaulting the girl over an extended period while promising to help her progress in the sport.
Allegations emerged after family approached police
According to NDTV, officials said the victim eventually disclosed the alleged abuse to her family after facing prolonged mental distress. The family subsequently approached the police, leading to the registration of a formal complaint.
Based on the girl's statement, police launched a preliminary inquiry before arresting the accused. Authorities said the allegations involve serious offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The police have also invoked charges related to rape and criminal intimidation. Investigators are currently collecting evidence and recording statements from individuals connected to the case.
Also Read | Who is Harsha Sunny? Ex-Mrs Kerala contestant held in ₹11.82 crore hydroponic weed smuggling case
Objectionable videos allegedly used for threats
According to NDTV, the accused allegedly recorded objectionable videos and photographs of the victim. Police said the teenager claimed these recordings were later used to threaten and pressure her.
The girl told investigators that when she attempted to distance herself from the coach, he allegedly warned that he would circulate the videos and photographs on social media if she did not comply with his demands.
Officials said the allegations of blackmail form an important part of the investigation, and digital evidence is being examined to verify the claims made by the victim.
Also Read | Teen 'kills father and sister' in Karnataka; online gaming addiction under probe
Police continue the investigation
According to NDTV, the accused has been remanded to custody as the investigation progresses. Police said they are examining electronic devices and other material that could be relevant to the case.
Authorities have not disclosed further details, citing the sensitive nature of the matter and legal protections available to minors under the POCSO Act.
Investigators said additional action will depend on the findings of the ongoing probe. Meanwhile, police have urged anyone with relevant information connected to the case to come forward and assist the investigation.
