Goa, Dec. 23 -- A Special POCSO Court in Panajim has rejected the bail application of an 18-year-old accused arrested for allegedly kidnapping a 16-year-old girl, taking her to Karnataka, and sexually assaulting her.

While denying bail, the court observed that the investigation is still at a preliminary stage and emphasised that the custodial presence of the accused is necessary for effective probe into the serious allegations.

According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly lured the minor girl and transported her out of the state before committing sexual assault. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with provisions of the Indian Penal Code.

The ...