Thiruvananthapuram: The extradition of a 43-year-old man from Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, who was wanted by the Kerala Police in connection with a heinous rape case, marks a significant development in the pursuit of justice. Peeru Muhammed Yahya Khan, the accused, had been evading authorities since the accusations surfaced. However, relentless efforts by law enforcement agencies led to his apprehension in the UAE, where he had sought refuge.
This complex case dates back to 2008 when Khan allegedly perpetrated a horrific act of sexual assault against a differently-abled woman. The gravity of the offense is compounded by the fact that it falls under the purview of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, highlighting the vulnerable status of the victim. Additionally, Khan is implicated in another rape case registered at the Pala police station in Kottayam district, further underscoring the severity of his alleged crimes.
Following his initial arrest and subsequent release on bail, Khan absconded to the UAE, presumably to evade accountability. Despite his attempts to flee justice, the concerted efforts of multiple agencies, including the CBI’s Global Operations Centre, Interpol, Kerala Police, the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi, and the Ministry of External Affairs, ensured that Khan was not beyond the reach of the law.
The issuance of a ‘Red Notice’ against Khan by Interpol earlier this year served as a crucial step in his apprehension. This international alert facilitated his identification and eventual extradition back to India. The coordination between Interpol NCB-Abu Dhabi and the Kerala Police was instrumental in effecting Khan’s return to face the legal consequences of his actions.
The successful extradition of Khan underscores the commitment of Indian law enforcement agencies to pursue justice relentlessly, regardless of geographical boundaries. It also highlights the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating transnational crimes and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their deeds.
As the National Central Bureau for Interpol in India, the CBI played a pivotal role in coordinating efforts across various jurisdictions, demonstrating its capability in handling complex and high-profile cases. This collaborative approach, coupled with determination, exemplifies the collective resolve to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the rights of the vulnerable in society.
