In a significant development, the Delhi Police crime branch has successfully apprehended a 33-year-old man who was convicted for rape and offences under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The individual had been evading authorities after jumping interim bail granted in 2022, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Details of the Heinous Crimes
According to police reports, the accused stands convicted for sexually assaulting the daughter of his domestic worker at his residence in southwest Delhi's Bindapur area back in 2016. In a shocking continuation of criminal behavior, he allegedly assaulted his friend's wife in the same locality during 2022. Both these serious cases were officially registered at the Bindapur police station, highlighting a pattern of predatory actions.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Violation
The judicial system had delivered a verdict sentencing him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code for his crimes. However, in 2022, he was granted a 28-day interim bail on medical grounds related to his wife's health condition. This temporary release was intended to be a compassionate measure, but the convict exploited this opportunity.
When the bail period concluded, the individual failed to surrender before the authorities as legally required. Instead, he chose to go absconding, deliberately evading the execution of his prison sentence and demonstrating contempt for the judicial process.
The Arrest Operation
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Harsh Indora revealed that the crime branch team received crucial intelligence indicating the wanted criminal would be visiting the Toll Road area, specifically near the Ghamroj Toll Plaza in Gurgaon. Acting swiftly on this tip-off, the police laid a strategic trap at the location.
The operation culminated successfully with the accused being arrested from the spot without incident. Prior to his apprehension, police investigations revealed he had been employed at a call center, attempting to maintain a low profile while remaining a fugitive from justice.
Broader Implications
This arrest underscores the persistent efforts of Delhi Police in tracking down individuals who attempt to escape legal consequences, particularly those convicted under serious statutes like the POCSO Act. The case also highlights the challenges authorities face when convicted criminals abuse temporary bail provisions meant for genuine humanitarian reasons.
The successful operation near the Gurgaon toll plaza demonstrates effective coordination between intelligence gathering and field execution, ensuring that those convicted of grave offences against women and children do not remain at large in society.
