Man Detained Following Horrific Sexual Assault on Toddler in Nandail

Police have apprehended a 37-year-old man in the Nandail Municipality of Mymensingh following the brutal sexual assault of a five-year-old girl. The suspect, identified as Mostafa, son of Abdur Rashid from the same municipality, was taken into custody late on Sunday night, 12 July, at around 10:45 pm after law enforcement officers launched a swift raid in the area.

Local sources and police officials stated that the harrowing incident took place on Sunday afternoon. According to the victim’s family, the child’s mother had briefly left her daughter at home to attend to domestic work at a neighbouring house. Seizing the opportunity, Mostafa allegedly lured the vulnerable child away from her home by promising her a boat ride in a nearby wetland (beel). He then took her to a secluded spot where the assault occurred.

The ordeal came to light when the mother returned home and grew increasingly anxious upon finding the house empty. Following a frantic search of the neighbourhood, she spotted her daughter walking back towards the house, severely injured and bleeding profusely. Traumatised and in tears, the young girl broke down under her mother’s questioning and recounted the horrific details of the abuse.

Initially, the family attempted to keep the matter quiet due to the intense social stigma and fear of public humiliation that often surrounds such incidents in rural communities. However, by Sunday evening, the child’s physical condition deteriorated sharply. As the continuous bleeding showed no signs of stopping, the family realised the gravity of the situation and rushed her to the emergency department of the Nandail Upazila Health Complex.

Dr Akramullah, the duty doctor at the health complex, confirmed the severity of the assault, stating that the toddler had suffered extensive sexual trauma. Medical staff administered immediate primary care, but due to persistent haemorrhaging and her critical state, she was urgently transferred to Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH) for advanced clinical treatment.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and tension among the local residents, who are demanding exemplary punishment for the perpetrator. Responding to the public outcry, law enforcement acted swiftly. Sub-Inspector (SI) Samraj Miah of the Nandail Police Station confirmed the arrest, adding that a formal case under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act is currently being processed. Police authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway to ensure justice is served swiftly.