Police have arrested a 25-year-old man in Lakshmipur over allegations that he raped a 13-year-old child inside her home. He was produced before a court on Tuesday afternoon, 8 September, and the judge ordered that he be sent to jail pending further legal proceedings.
The accused has been identified as Md Faisal, a resident of Gopinathpur area in South Hamchhadi Union under Lakshmipur Sadar Upazila. According to the case statement and police, the alleged incident took place on Sunday, 6 September.
The child and Faisal live in neighbouring houses, according to investigators. The family has alleged that the accused had been harassing the child for some time before the incident.
According to the complaint, the child’s mother went to a local market on 6 September. During her absence, Faisal allegedly entered the family’s house and sexually assaulted the child. When the child attempted to raise an alarm, the accused allegedly covered her mouth and threatened to kill her if she disclosed what had happened.
The child’s mother reportedly returned from the market while Faisal was leaving the house. Police said she saw him running away and raised an alarm, prompting people from nearby homes to come outside. The incident subsequently became known in the neighbourhood.
On Monday night, 7 September, local residents reportedly found and detained Faisal in the Gopinathpur area at about 9.30pm. He was allegedly assaulted by members of the crowd before police were informed. Officers then arrived at the scene, took him into custody and arranged initial medical treatment for him at Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital.
Police later proceeded with the legal process and brought the accused before the court on Tuesday. Following the hearing, the court ordered him to be sent to jail.
Sub-Inspector Monir Hossain of Sadar Model Police Station said the preliminary investigation had found evidence supporting the allegations made by the child’s family. He said a detailed investigation into the case was continuing.
As the investigation proceeds, the allegations against Faisal remain subject to the judicial process. Police are expected to examine the statements of those involved and other available evidence as part of the investigation.
The case has also drawn attention to the vulnerability of children to sexual abuse, particularly when the alleged perpetrator is someone known to the family or living nearby. Child protection specialists generally stress the importance of ensuring a victim’s physical safety, privacy and access to appropriate support while an investigation is under way.
The reported assault on the accused by local residents is a separate matter. Regardless of the seriousness of the allegations, suspects must be dealt with through lawful procedures rather than mob punishment. The court will ultimately determine the accused’s legal responsibility based on the evidence presented through the judicial process.
