Kanpur Police Apprehend Two More Suspects in Mandhana Gang Rape Case
In a significant development, Bithoor police in Kanpur have arrested two more accused in the Mandhana gang rape case involving a 16-year-old girl from Varanasi. The operation was conducted near the Ganga Barrage turn, marking a crucial step in the investigation.
Previous Arrest and Confession
The police had already arrested one accused, identified as a hostel operator, on Wednesday. He was subsequently sent to jail the following day. During interrogation, the hostel operator confessed to his involvement in the gang rape, providing key details that aided the investigation.
Details of the Crime
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when the teenager from the Cantt police station area of Varanasi arrived in Mandhana. She met the hostel operator and his two associates, who lured her to a hostel on Mandhana Tikra Road under the pretext of arranging accommodation. The hostel is owned by the accused operator. There, all three accused gang raped the girl before fleeing the scene.
Investigation and Evidence Collection
On Thursday, Bithoor police and a forensic team visited the hostel with the survivor to conduct a thorough investigation. Evidence collected from the hostel room was sent for examination, which helped establish the sequence of events and identify the perpetrators.
Arrest of the Two Associates
Police traced the mobile number locations of the two associates to Bheeti village in Bikru. However, during a raid, the accused received information about the police operation and managed to escape. On Friday, law enforcement successfully arrested both suspects near Gambhirpur Kachhar village, located at the Ganga Barrage Mod. Both individuals have confessed to their roles in the crime.
Legal Proceedings and Background
A case had been registered against the accused in 2022 under sections including rioting and assault, indicating a prior criminal record. ACP Kalyanpur Ashutosh Kumar confirmed that all three accused have been sent to jail, ensuring they face legal consequences for their actions.
Survivor's Statement and Family Involvement
The rape survivor's magisterial statement could not be recorded on Friday due to the court being closed. Police are bringing a family member from Varanasi to the city, and they will also obtain documents such as the teenager's age certificate. The statement is scheduled to be recorded on Saturday, after which the survivor will be handed over to her family members. Until then, she will stay at Nari Niketa for safety and support.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Kanpur police to address serious crimes and ensure justice for victims, with a focus on thorough investigation and swift action against perpetrators.
