A 21-year-old Shillong resident wanted in connection with a POCSO and rape case has surrendered before the police and was arrested in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district. The accused, identified as Jonathan L. Pachau, surrendered at Laitumkhrah Police Station on July 16 after police launched a statewide search and issued an all-India lookout notice.
Authorities have registered multiple cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Meanwhile, investigators continue to collect evidence and record statements from additional complainants. Police have also urged the public not to treat unverified social media allegations as established facts while the investigation remains ongoing.
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Key Facts
- Location: Laitumkhrah, Shillong, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
- Accused: Jonathan L. Pachau, 21
- Date of Surrender: July 16, 2026
- Police Station: Laitumkhrah Police Station
- Charges: Sections 3, 4, 11 and 12 of the POCSO Act and Section 64(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Current Status: Arrested and to be produced before the court
- Investigation: Ongoing
Accused Surrenders Before Police
A 21-year-old Shillong resident wanted in connection with a POCSO and rape case surrendered before police at Laitumkhrah Police Station on July 16. Soon after the surrender, police arrested the accused and initiated the required legal procedures.
Police identified the accused as Jonathan L. Pachau. Authorities confirmed that they will produce him before the appropriate court in accordance with the law.
Multiple Charges Registered
Police booked the accused in Laitumkhrah Police Station Case No. 100/2026 under Sections 3, 4, 11 and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
In addition, investigators registered Laitumkhrah PS Case No. 94/2026 under Section 64(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Officials have not released further details about the allegations because the investigation remains active.
Police Launched Search Before Arrest
Before the surrender, Meghalaya Police had declared the accused absconding and issued an all-India lookout notice to trace him.
Furthermore, the police formed a special investigation team and coordinated with Mizoram Police after receiving information that the accused might have left Meghalaya.
These coordinated efforts continued until the accused surrendered before the police.
Investigation Continues
Police officials said investigators are continuing to collect evidence in the case.
Meanwhile, additional complainants have approached the police. Officers are recording their statements and will register separate FIRs wherever required under the law.
Earlier, investigators had already recorded the statement of the first complainant and secured relevant digital evidence as part of the investigation.
Police Examining Additional Complaints
According to police, investigators are examining information suggesting that additional victims may be connected to the case.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with relevant information or complaints to approach the nearest police station and cooperate with the investigation.
Officials will verify every complaint through the legal process before taking further action.
Police Urge Public to Avoid Rumours
The case attracted widespread public attention after photographs of the accused and several allegations circulated on social media.
However, police have urged the public not to treat unverified online claims as confirmed facts. Instead, investigators will verify all information during the investigation.
Officials also stated that they will file a chargesheet after completing the investigation and examining all available evidence.
Case Came to Light Earlier This Month
The case first came to light after social media posts alleged that multiple young women had been sexually assaulted by the accused over a period of time.
However, police clarified that only one formal FIR had initially been registered at Laitumkhrah Police Station on July 7. At that time, they appealed to any other alleged victims to come forward and file formal complaints.
Since then, the investigation has expanded as additional individuals contacted the police.
Question and Answer
What happened?
A 21-year-old Shillong resident surrendered before police and was arrested in connection with a POCSO and rape case.
Who is the accused?
Police identified the accused as Jonathan L. Pachau, a resident of Shillong.
What charges has police filed?
Police booked him under several sections of the POCSO Act and Section 64(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes. Police continue to record statements, examine evidence, and investigate additional complaints.
What has police advised the public?
Police have urged people not to treat unverified social media allegations as confirmed facts and to allow the investigation to proceed through the legal process.
Location Context
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, serves as the administrative and judicial centre of the state. Therefore, major criminal investigations conducted in East Khasi Hills often involve coordination between multiple law enforcement agencies, especially when suspects may have travelled outside the state.
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