A minor girl was gang raped by three juveniles near a temple in Gujarat’s Valsad district after befriending one of the accused through social media, police said. All three accused have been taken into custody and booked under relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

According to police, the incident took place on the night of August 23 near the Sai Baba Temple in Tithal, a coastal area in Valsad. The case came to light after the victim’s mother lodged a complaint with the Valsad City Police Station.

Deputy Superintendent of Police AK Verma said preliminary investigations revealed that the girl had come in contact with one of the juvenile accused through Instagram around two years ago. The two had remained in touch through social media and frequently communicated online.

Police said the boy allegedly called the girl to meet him near the Sai Baba Temple on August 23. When she reached the spot, he was accompanied by another juvenile. The trio reportedly went for a walk before the girl was allegedly taken to a secluded area behind the temple, where the assault took place.

Investigators said the two accused later called a third friend to the location, following which all three juveniles allegedly sexually assaulted the girl.

The incident remained undiscovered for several hours as the victim did not return home. Concerned family members launched a search and began looking for her across the area. Police said the frightened girl was later found near Wadi at around 1.30 am.

After being reunited with her family, the girl disclosed the alleged assault, prompting her mother to approach the police. A case was immediately registered under the POCSO Act and other relevant provisions.

According to investigators, the accused were allegedly attempting to take the girl back when they noticed family members and local residents searching for her. They then reportedly abandoned her and fled the area.

Police said all three juveniles were traced and taken into custody within hours of the complaint being filed. They are currently being questioned, and further legal proceedings are underway.

The case has sparked concern among local residents and renewed discussions about online interactions involving minors and the risks associated with social media-based friendships.

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Published By:

Nitish Singh

Published On:

Aug 26, 2026 01:54 IST