A self-styled traditional healer has been arrested in northern Bangladesh after allegations that he sexually assaulted an SSC (Dakhil) examination candidate under the pretext of exorcising “spiritual possession”, police confirmed.
The arrest was made on Tuesday night (5 May) from the Namazgar area of Bogura town. The accused, identified as Hakim Rezaul Karim (40), reportedly operated a practice at a facility named “Ash-Shifa Dawa Khana”, located adjacent to the Bhandari Mosque, where he presented himself as a practitioner of spiritual healing and ritualistic treatment.
According to the complaint filed by the victim’s family, the incident began when the accused claimed that the schoolgirl was suffering from the influence of a “jinn” and required urgent spiritual cleansing through ritual prayers and incantations. On this pretext, he allegedly took the girl into a closed room, instructed others to leave, and then proceeded to sexually assault her against her will.
The complaint further states that later the same day, the accused demanded a sum of 16,500 Bangladeshi Taka from the victim’s family, instructing them to bring her back to the premises. When the family complied and returned with the money, he allegedly again took the girl into a room and repeated the assault.
The victim reportedly disclosed the incidents to her family while in tears, prompting immediate concern among relatives. Following discussions with local residents, the family lodged a written complaint at the police station, leading to swift law enforcement action.
Police officials confirmed that the accused was taken into custody shortly after the complaint was received. The victim has undergone a medical examination as part of the investigation process, and legal proceedings are currently underway.
Authorities have emphasised that the case is being treated with seriousness, and further investigation is ongoing to collect evidence and record statements.
Summary of Key Details
| Category |
Information |
| Location of incident |
Namazgar area, Bogura town |
| Accused |
Hakim Rezaul Karim (40) |
| Profession claimed |
Traditional healer (Kabiraj) |
| Establishment |
Ash-Shifa Dawa Khana (near Bhandari Mosque) |
| Victim |
SSC (Dakhil) examination candidate |
| Allegation |
Sexual assault under pretext of spiritual treatment |
| Reported financial demand |
16,500 Bangladeshi Taka |
| Police action |
Arrest made on 5 May night |
| Medical procedure |
Victim’s medical examination completed |
The case has drawn attention to concerns over unregulated spiritual and traditional healing practices, particularly where vulnerable individuals may be exploited under claims of supernatural or religious treatment. Police have stated that the investigation will proceed in accordance with existing laws governing sexual offences and exploitation.
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