Three sentenced to three months RI

Mumbai, June 2 (UNI) A local court today sentenced three people to eighteen months rigorous imprisonment in a kidnapping case of 1998.

The accused were earlier being tried for rape charges as well.

However, additional sessions Judge M S Keny acquitted all of them of the rape charges, giving them a benefit of doubt, but charged them in the case of kidnapping.

The Court also slapped a fine of Rs 500 each, failing which they have to undergo further three months imprisonment.

Those who are convicted are Shashikant Nikhalje (18), Ramdhiraj Maji (20) and Sanjay Patel (18).

The 15-year-old victim girl, a resident of Ambedkarnagar in Mankur--a city suburb, was taken to a place on June 18, 1998 by one of the accused Shashikant. Later two of his friends joined them.

According to the victim's statement, she had become unconscious after having a drink offered by the trio. Regaining her onsciousness, she found herself to be naked.

Nine witnesses were examined in the case.

UNI PVN PM PR RK1905