Teenager reportedly gang-raped in Gaibandha, 3 arrested

Teenager reportedly gang-raped in Gaibandha, 3 arrested

An 18-year-old girl has been allegedly gang-raped after being taken from her home late at night in Saghata, Gaibandha. Police have arrested three youths in connection with the incident, which occurred late on Friday night, June 5.

Police arrested the three accused from the scene on Saturday morning, June 6, and took the victim into custody. One accused remains at large.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Labu Mia, 25, Nirab Mia, 20, and Swadhin Bepari, 22, of Gachhabari Madhyapara area. The absconding accused, Bipul alias Dipjal, is from the Futani Bazar area of Bonarpara union.

According to police and local sources, the victim was taken to a secluded area after the accused gagged her when she stepped out of her house at night. She was allegedly gang-raped there. The accused also snatched her mobile phone and Tk 2,000 in cash.

Locals caught the three accused and locked them in a room before informing police through the national emergency service 999. A police team led by Sub-Inspector Rafiqul Islam arrived at the scene on Saturday morning and arrested the three.

Saghata Police Station OC Mahbubur Rahman confirmed the matter, saying police arrested the three accused from the spot. One accused managed to flee. The victim has been kept at the police station's victim support centre, and arrangements are being made to send her to hospital for medical examination.

No written complaint has been received yet, the OC said. A case will be filed once the victim or her family submits a written complaint. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the absconding accused.