Model rape case: 3 accused cops suspended

Three policemen accused of raping and extorting money from a model have been suspended while two officers have been transferred for "inept" handling of the case.

Sunil Katape, Suresh Suryavanshi and Yogesh Ponde -- all policemen attached to MIDC Police station in the suburbs -have been placed under suspension, a senior officer said.

They are among the eight persons arrested in the rape-cum extortion case. All are in police custody till April 29.

Besides, Senior Inspector of Sakinaka Police Station Prasanna More and DCP of the zone Prashant Holkar have been transferred for "inept" handling of the case, he said.

The 29-year-old victim had approached the Sakinaka Police Station for registration of an offence after being allegedly raped.

Joint Commissioner of Police Deven Bharti (law and order) told PTI, "A few officers have been transferred. Senior Inspector of Sakinaka, Prasanna More, has been transferred to Special Branch while DCP Prashant Holkar (Zone 10) shifted to local Arms Unit."

"Our department has transferred these officers who could not supervise their jurisdiction properly," he said.

He also confirmed suspension of the three accused policemen.

In her complaint, the model has alleged that she was sexually assaulted by policemen in MIDC Police station early this month. She has also alleged they took over Rs 4 lakh from her.