Seventh-grade student gone missing for 18 days in Gaibandha

A 14-year-old schoolgirl has remained missing for 18 days in Sundarganj upazila of Gaibandha, leaving her family in deep distress as police continue efforts to trace her whereabouts.

The Class VII student, a resident of Bhati Kapasia village under Kapasia Union, has been missing since the evening of July 13. A general diary (GD) has been filed with Sundarganj Police Station in connection with the incident.

According to family members, the girl was at home shortly before the Maghrib prayer on the day she disappeared. When she could no longer be found, relatives launched an extensive search in nearby areas and contacted friends and acquaintances, but no trace of her has been found.

The girl's father said he was informed of her disappearance while he was at a local market. He returned immediately and, along with relatives, searched all possible locations without success.

"My wife has been devastated since our only daughter went missing," he said.

The head teacher of the girl's school said the institution became aware of the incident after noticing her prolonged absence from classes and subsequently contacting the family.

Shahin Mohammad Amanullah, officer-in-charge (OC) of Sundarganj Police Station, said, "Investigators are treating the case with the highest priority."

"Not all details can be disclosed at this stage in the interest of the investigation. However, police are making every effort, and we hope the student will be found soon," he said.

The family has appealed to the public for any information regarding the missing girl. Anyone with relevant information has been requested to contact 01749-089580 or 01917-245174.

Police have urged anyone with credible information to come forward as the search operation continues.