CrimeNews – Metro Station Elevator Assault Suspect Arrested After Interstate Search
CrimeNews – A 40-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl inside an elevator at a metro station in Mumbai has been arrested after an extensive police operation that stretched beyond state borders. The suspect, identified as Doni Sarkar, was taken into custody in Raipur after investigators traced his movements following the incident.
Incident Reported at Metro Station
According to police officials, the incident occurred on the morning of May 29 at the Dahanukarwadi Metro station in Kandivali. The 17-year-old victim, a college student living with her family in the area, was on her way to Platform No. 1 when she entered a station elevator around 11:45 a.m.
Investigators said the accused entered the lift shortly after the teenager. Once inside and finding no other passengers present, he allegedly behaved inappropriately and assaulted the minor before quickly leaving the location.
Family Approaches Police
After returning home, the student informed her family about the incident. Her relatives then approached the Kandivali Police Station and lodged a formal complaint. Based on the victim’s statement, police registered a case under applicable provisions of the law, including sections related to offences against minors and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
CCTV Footage Played Key Role
Following the complaint, police launched a detailed investigation to identify and locate the suspect. Officers reviewed more than 70 CCTV recordings collected from different points within and around the metro station.
The footage helped investigators establish the suspect’s identity and track his movements after the alleged crime. Further technical analysis indicated that he had travelled from Dadar railway station and boarded the Gitanjali Express in an apparent attempt to leave Mumbai.
Accused Tracked to Raipur
Working closely with railway police and local authorities, the investigation team followed the trail to Raipur. After confirming his location, officers apprehended Sarkar and placed him under arrest.
During questioning, police said the accused admitted his involvement in the incident. Investigators stated that he allegedly told officers he committed the act merely for amusement, a claim that has become part of the ongoing probe.
Background of the Suspect
Police inquiries revealed that Sarkar originally belongs to Kolkata and had been living in Mumbai for work. He reportedly stayed in a rented accommodation in the Charkop area of Kandivali and earned a living through casual labour jobs that required him to move frequently between locations.
Authorities are also examining his background and previous activities as part of the investigation to determine whether he may have been involved in any other offences.
Court Sends Accused to Police Custody
After completing legal formalities and securing a transit remand, the police brought the accused back to Mumbai. He was later produced before the special POCSO Court in Dindoshi.
The court subsequently remanded him to police custody, allowing investigators additional time to gather evidence and continue questioning. Officials said the investigation remains active, and further legal action will proceed based on the findings of the case.