In a shocking incident from Kanpur, the police have arrested a local journalist and suspended a sub-inspector in connection with the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl. The accused journalist, Shivbaran Yadav, is now in custody, while a massive manhunt is underway for the absconding police officer, Amit Maurya.
How the Crime Unfolded and the Investigation Began
The case came to light when a man filed a complaint stating that his 14-year-old sister had gone to the fields on Monday night but did not return for a long time. After a frantic search by the family, the girl returned after midnight. She narrated a harrowing tale of being forcibly taken by two men in a black SUV near the railway line, where one of them sexually assaulted her.
Based on this complaint, the police registered an FIR against the occupants of the SUV and began their probe. On Tuesday, DCP West Dinesh Tripathi recorded the victim's detailed statement. The investigation gained crucial momentum the next day when ADCP West Kapil Dev Singh visited the village. Locals provided information about a black SUV, which was identified as belonging to sub-inspector Amit Maurya, posted at the local outpost under whose jurisdiction the crime occurred.
Identification, Arrests, and Immediate Police Action
The victim identified the SUV from a photo shown to her by ADCP Singh. She also identified journalist Shivbaran Yadav as being involved in the incident, leading to his swift arrest by the Sachendi police. The black SUV used in the crime has been recovered.
Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal announced the immediate suspension of sub-inspector Amit Maurya, who is now evading arrest. Four special teams have been formed to track down and apprehend the absconding officer. In a significant disciplinary action, the Commissioner also suspended Sachendi police station in-charge Vikram Singh for serious lapses.
Accountability Within the Police Ranks
Station House Officer Vikram Singh faced suspension for a trio of failures: not filing the FIR under the correct legal sections, altering facts of the case, and failing to provide clear information to senior officials. This move underscores the administration's attempt to ensure accountability within the force in the face of this grave crime.
The case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting concerns about the safety of minors and the conduct of individuals in positions of trust, including a journalist and a police officer. The investigation continues as authorities work to ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.
