Netrakona Child Rape Suspect Apprehended in Gazipur

A fugitive accused of raping a nine-year-old schoolgirl in the Kendua Upazila of Netrakona has been apprehended by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB). The suspect, identified as Abdur Rahim, was detained during a evening raid on a residence in Gazipur, bringing an end to a brief manhunt. Following his arrest, RAB officials formally transferred Rahim to the custody of the Kendua Police Station.

The Assault and Subsequent Cover-Up Attempt

According to local police reports, familial testimonies, and community sources, the harrowing incident transpired on a Saturday afternoon. The young victim had ventured to a nearby haor (wetland) to retrieve cattle when she was targeted by the suspect. When the child failed to return home on schedule, her mother initiated a search, ultimately discovering the suspect fleeing the scene from beneath a tree.

Initially, the traumatised victim received basic medical attention from a local village doctor. However, the family’s plight was severely compounded by local influential figures. Village elders, identified as Abu Taher and Abu Bakkar, allegedly attempted to suppress the crime. They actively discouraged the family from seeking legal recourse, offering a financial settlement of 50,000 BDT to silence the grievance.

“When I expressed my intention to file a police report, the village elders, Abu Taher and Abu Bakkar, obstructed me under the guise of an informal settlement. Fearing public humiliation, I delayed contacting the authorities. I now demand exemplary punishment for Rahim,” the victim’s father stated.

Escalation and Police Intervention

By Monday, the child’s physical condition deteriorated significantly, necessitating her admission to the Kendua Upazila Health Complex. As her complications worsened, she was transferred to the Netrakona 250-Bed District Hospital for specialised care. Resisting community pressure, the victim’s father officially filed a criminal lawsuit on Tuesday, naming Abdur Rahim as the sole accused.

Key Timeline of Events

Current Legal Status

The Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Kendua Police Station, Mehdi Maksud, confirmed that the primary suspect is currently in custody and preparations are underway to present him before the judiciary.

The two village elders implicated in the obstruction of justice have reportedly absconded, and their mobile phones remain deactivated. OC Maksud assured the public that stringent legal action would be taken against Abu Taher and Abu Bakkar if investigation confirms their role in attempting to suppress the felony. In a reassuring update, the police confirmed that the young girl has since recovered sufficiently to be discharged and has returned home.