Hyderabad News: A teenager has been arrested for the suspected sexual assault and murder of a five-year-old boy, according to police reports on Sunday.

The accused, who works at a timber depot, allegedly enticed the child with the promise of biscuits on August 12. He then took the boy to a secluded area near his home, where the assault is said to have occurred before the child was strangled to death.

The boy's father reported him missing after he did not return from playing outside. Following this, the Uppal Police Station initiated an investigation. Officers reviewed CCTV footage from the vicinity, which revealed the suspect leading the boy away.

The suspect was apprehended on August 15. During questioning, he reportedly confessed to the crime, stating he killed the boy out of fear that he would disclose what happened. The child's body was later discovered hidden in nearby bushes.

Authorities have sent the suspect to a state-run hospital for an age assessment, with results pending. Charges have been filed under relevant sections of the POCSO Act and BNS.

(With PTI Inputs)