Kochi:
A local CPI(M) leader was arrested yesterday night in connection with a sex scandal in which at least 100 persons, including her own father, are alleged to have sexually exploited a 14-year-old girl.
Thomas Varghese, local secretary of Mazhavannoor in Muvattupuzha in Ernakulam district, was arrested by a Crime Branch team, police sources said.
With the arrest of Varghese, a total of 32 persons have been arrested in connection with the case.
Police teams have already been sent to Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and various parts of Kerala to nab the absconding accused. The teams were formed last week after the girl revealed to police about her alleged sexual exploitation, including by her own father.
The child is being treated for venereal diseases at a government hospital here. Police believe about 100 persons might be involved in the case.
The girl told police that her father, who used to do odd roles in Malayalam films, first exploited her and then let many others in the industry and outside to do the same.
Hailing from Paravoor in Ernakulam District, the girl had revealed to a close relative about her plight, following which a police complaint was filed some three months ago.
Meanwhile CPI-M District Secretay Gopi Kottamurikkal convened a meeting and expelled Varghese from the party on charges of indulging in immoral activities.