India, Feb. 11 -- The district and sessions court in Panaji has acquitted Goa revenue minister Atanasio 'Babush' Monserrate in a 2016 rape and human trafficking case, bringing to a close a trial that lasted more than ten years.

Monserrate and co-accused Rosy Ferros had consistently maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings. The woman had alleged in a statement to police in 2016 that Monserrate bought her for Rs.50 lakh from her mother in a deal facilitated by Ferros. She had also accused them of drugging and sexually assaulting her. However, police did not find sufficient evidence to charge the mother.

Speaking to the media outside the court, defence advocate Damodar Dhond said both accused were acquitted of all charges.

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