Wed Sep 18 17:49:00 UTC 2024: ## Student Accused of Attempted Abduction Can Be Named

**Dublin, Ireland** – A 25-year-old postgraduate student, Visak Rajesh Leela, has been charged with attempted abduction of a five-year-old boy from a Dublin apartment building. The accused, originally from India, was arrested following a party on Saturday and has been denied bail.

The incident allegedly occurred when Leela was seen leaving the apartment building with the young boy under his arm. The boy’s older sister, 10 years old, followed them outside, before the children returned to the apartment and Leela left. CCTV footage supports the allegations, according to Gardaí (Irish Police).

While a judge initially ruled to prevent the accused from being named in the press, citing concerns over the sensitivity of the case, this decision was overturned on Wednesday. Judge Alan Mitchell concluded that the media should be allowed to name the defendant, but exercise caution and avoid identifying the children involved.

Leela, who appeared via video link, has denied any sinister intent, stating “I was not taking the child anywhere. I’m not a person like that. I do not have any intention with a child. I do not have any bad or unwanted intentions with a child.”

The case is expected to proceed to the circuit court, where the offence carries a maximum sentence of seven years. Leela was remanded in custody and will appear again on October 2nd, pending directions from the DPP.

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