A 60-year-old man has been arrested by police in connection with an alleged attempted assault on a 10-year-old child in the Ghior Bazar area under Saturia Upazila in Manikganj district. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern among local residents, who have demanded swift justice and stronger protective measures for children in the community.

According to police and local accounts, the victim, a 10-year-old student of a nearby madrasa, was playing close to her home on Tuesday around midday, when the accused, identified as Md. Khorshed (60), son of the late Hamed Ali and a resident of the same locality, allegedly lured her into a nearby maize field. He is accused of attempting to exploit and assault the child after making inappropriate advances and offering inducements.

When the child resisted, the situation escalated. The victim reportedly cried out for help, drawing the attention of a neighbouring resident, Sirajul Islam, who rushed to the scene. Sensing the arrival of witnesses, the accused allegedly abandoned the child and fled the location. The prompt intervention of local residents is believed to have prevented a more serious outcome.

Following the incident, anger spread quickly throughout the area. Locals staged protests and demanded the strictest punishment for the accused. Community members alleged that the man had a history of inappropriate behaviour and harassment within the locality, particularly towards women and adolescents. Residents further claimed that previous complaints had not been effectively addressed, which they believe emboldened further misconduct.

Police confirmed that the victim’s father later filed a written complaint at Saturia Police Station. Acting on the complaint, law enforcement officers conducted an immediate operation and arrested the suspect. He was subsequently produced before a court, and the case has since moved into the investigation phase.

A police officer from Saturia Police Station confirmed the arrest, stating that swift action was taken as soon as the allegation was reported. Authorities have assured that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and that legal proceedings are underway.

The incident has once again highlighted concerns over child safety and community vigilance in rural areas, with many local voices urging stronger enforcement of laws and quicker judicial processes to deter such offences in the future.

Case Summary