Pune: A shocking case of child abuse has surfaced in Daund, Pune, where three minors have been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly making sexual advances towards children who availed their camel ride service.

According to police, the incident occurred on September 16 on the Daund-Gopalwadi road. The minors, who offered camel rides to children for a fee, allegedly took them to isolated areas and molested them. The matter came to light when one of the victims, a minor girl, reported the incident to her relatives.

The girl's relatives noticed she was late returning home and questioned her about the delay. She revealed that the camel ride operator had inappropriately touched her. The family immediately confronted the minor, who confessed to the crime and apologized. However, the relatives took him to the Daund police station.

Further investigation revealed that two other minors, also operating camel rides in the area, had allegedly committed similar offenses. They were also brought to the police station.

Police Inspector Santosh Doke registered a case under relevant sections of the POCSO Act and the Indian Penal Code. Assistant Inspector Nagnath Patil is investigating the matter.

"The accused minors have been booked under the POCSO Act for sexual harassment and molestation," said Police Inspector Bapu Rote. "The police will ensure that the victims receive necessary support and counseling."